Newsroom
An 18-year-old British man, Marcus Fakana, has been sentenced to a year in a Dubai prison for engaging in a consensual relationship with a 17-year-old girl. The incident underscores the importance of understanding and adhering to local laws, particularly when traveling to countries with strict moral codes.
While Fakana and the girl, both from London, believed their relationship was consensual, UAE law considers the girl a minor. This led to Fakana's arrest and subsequent conviction.
The Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, emphasized the need for British citizens to familiarize themselves with the laws of the countries they visit. He assured that Fakana has received consular assistance but reiterated the importance of respecting local laws and customs.
"It is the case wherever you are in the world - and that's why the Foreign Office makes clear on its website what the rules are - that you follow the rules and the law according to that country," he said.
The case has sparked debate about the severity of the punishment and the potential impact on young travelers. It serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly minor infractions can have serious legal consequences in foreign jurisdictions.
With information from Sky News.
