Home / Crime and Justice / Briton Held in Dubai for Filming Missiles
Briton Held in Dubai for Filming Missiles
11 Mar
Summary
- A British tourist was detained in Dubai for allegedly filming Iranian missiles during regional strikes.
- The 60-year-old Londoner is held at Bur Dubai police station.
- He faces up to two years in jail or a fine under UAE's strict cybercrime laws.
A British tourist has been detained in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, after allegedly filming Iranian missile strikes. The 60-year-old man from London was reportedly arrested on Monday while on holiday and is currently held at the Bur Dubai police station. The incident occurred amidst ongoing regional attacks, raising concerns about the potential legal repercussions for the tourist.
Under the UAE's stringent cybercrime laws, individuals found to be posting material deemed harmful to public order or national security can face significant penalties. These can include fines up to $77,000 (£58,000) or imprisonment for up to two years. Accusations under national security legislation could lead to even longer sentences.
Campaign group Detained in Dubai is assisting the detained man's family, with its chief executive emphasizing that many visitors underestimate the seriousness with which authorities treat such incidents. The group noted that authorities are particularly sensitive to foreigners filming near government sites, fearing espionage or negative publicity that could damage Dubai's image.
