13-year-old boy left at African boarding school by parents who believed he had joined a gang in London.

A teenage boy has taken the brave step of taking his own parents to court. At just 13 years old, he is fighting to return to his home in the UK after being abandoned by his parents at a boarding school in Africa. According to the boy, his parents had fears that he was getting involved with a dangerous gang in London, prompting them to send him away.

The boy has initiated a family court case, representing himself and claiming that his parents have not only physically but also emotionally abandoned him. His lawyers have stated that he denies any involvement with gangs in London and described him as a well-mannered and articulate young man with a love for football and cooking.

The boy, whose identity cannot be revealed, reached out to the British Consulate and a child welfare organization after his parents enrolled him in the school and flew back to England without him. He claims that they lied to him, saying they were going to care for a sick relative, but in reality, they left him behind with only a few of his belongings.

The boy's allegations against his parents and the school are severe. He claims that the food and education he receives are inadequate, and he is being mistreated while staying there. Additionally, he feels humiliated by his English friends who tease him for being "deported."

Deirdre Fottrell KC, the boy's lawyer, has said that the steps he has taken to improve his situation at such a young age are extraordinary. She also stated that there is clear evidence of him being emotionally and possibly even physically harmed in the school environment.

The boy has also alleged that he suffered physical abuse and was subjected to strict measures, including his parents tracking his every move through his mobile phone, while he was in the UK. His mother has reportedly admitted to physically punishing him. However, his lawyers argue that he is not perfect, but the situation has left him upset, confused, and distressed.

Rebecca Foulkes, the boy's father's lawyer, has stated that social workers have reported difficulties in managing the boy's behavior, and his mother had resorted to physical aggression to control him. They also mentioned that the boy had been frequently late for class and had been seen staying out late, raising suspicions of engaging in criminal activities. His school had also expressed concerns about him owning expensive items and having access to phones.

In written submissions, Foulkes continued that the school had recorded concerns about the boy's vulnerability and susceptibility to grooming. He had also been accused of stealing phones and had pictures of knives on his phone, including his friends holding them. From the father's perspective, the boy's behavior had deteriorated, and he was showing signs of criminal behavior. However, he did not seem to understand the risks he was exposing himself to.

Foulkes argued that there are high-quality care and educational facilities available in Africa, where the risks present in the UK are not present. She also added that the boy has great potential, but it would be wasted if he were to return to the UK. With the delays in the Elizabeth line and the closure of an iconic London market, it's clear that the city has its own set of challenges. Stay updated with the latest news from the capital by visiting Metro's London news hub.

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