A young man who served time in Dubai for engaging in a relationship with a minor has passed away in a car accident three months after his release. Marcus Fakana, 19, was represented by the UK-based legal firm Detained in Dubai while he was incarcerated and tragically lost his life in a collision in Tottenham, north London.
Last December, Marcus was sentenced to one year in prison in the UAE for being involved in a consensual relationship with a 17-year-old British girl when he was 18. Dubai does not have a specified age of consent, but any sexual activity outside of marriage is deemed illegal.
Upon his return from a holiday and the discovery of photos and conversations with the girl, her mother reported the relationship to Dubai authorities, leading to Marcus’s arrest at his hotel. He endured six months in the notorious al-Awir prison under harsh conditions and limited communication with his family.
Back in London, Marcus’s family and friends, alongside legal advocates, campaigned fervently for his release, urging both Dubai officials and the British government to intervene. Eventually, on July 3, he was granted a royal pardon by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and reunited with his family in London.
Tragically, Marcus lost his life in a car accident on Friday morning, as confirmed by his family. Expressing her grief on social media, his aunt lamented the outcome despite her efforts to secure his freedom.
Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, praised Marcus for his strength and optimism about the future, highlighting the devastation of his untimely death. She emphasized the importance of freedom and the irreversible loss caused by unnecessary imprisonment.
The passing of Marcus serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the significance of every moment of liberty.
