December 30th 2024.
Marcus Fakana, a young British teenager, is facing the possibility of spending the entire year of 2025 behind bars in one of Dubai's most notorious prisons. This news has caused quite a stir amongst his family and supporters, who have been eagerly following his case.
It all began last September when Marcus, who was on holiday in Dubai with his family to celebrate his father's birthday, found himself in trouble with the law. The reason? He had engaged in a consensual sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl. Her mother, upon discovering the affair, promptly reported it to the police.
After months of legal proceedings, Marcus was recently sentenced to a year in Al Awir prison, known for its appalling conditions. In a statement released through the campaign group Detained in Dubai, Marcus expressed his gratitude to all those who have supported him throughout this ordeal. He also credited his faith in Jesus Christ for giving him the strength to endure.
The young man from Tottenham, London, had previously opened up to Detained in Dubai about his romance with the girl, who was only a few months younger than him. He explained that they had both liked each other, but her strict family had forced her to keep their relationship a secret. Marcus' parents were aware of the situation, but the girl could not tell her own parents about him.
Sadly, the girl's mother discovered chats and pictures on her phone upon her return to the UK and decided to involve the Emirati police. In Dubai, it is illegal to engage in sexual activities with anyone under the age of 18, even if it is consensual. This meant that Marcus was facing a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
According to Radha Stirling, the CEO of Detained in Dubai, the police could have charged Marcus with a lesser offense, such as "offensive behavior," but instead, they chose to charge him with a felony. This is the same charge that a 40-year-old would face for having sex with a 14-year-old.
Now, Marcus and his family are hoping for a pardon from Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum. In the meantime, they have also appealed to the UK's embassy and Foreign Secretary for assistance in the case. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover the family's legal expenses, and it has already raised over £45,000.
The Fakana family remains hopeful and determined to see Marcus freed and returned home safely. They are grateful for all the support and donations they have received, and they continue to put their faith in God during this difficult time.
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