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world7h ago
Family of Brit, 72, 'falsely detained' in Dubai plead for his freedom
- Briton Ryan Cornelius, 72, has reportedly been detained in Dubai since 2008 in a high-security prison, with an 18-year confinement spanning his birthday this year.
- The family says the sentence, initially 10 years, was later extended by 20 years in 2018, delaying his release until 2038 at age 84.
- UN human rights officials have deemed Ryan’s detention as arbitrary, prompting renewed calls for UK intervention amid concerns over justice and asset seizures.
- Campaigners accuse the UK Government of prioritizing UAE financial ties over a British citizen’s freedom and advocate for stronger sanctions.
- The UN Working Group ruled the trial unfair in 2022, contributing to international pressure on authorities to address the case.
- The family has pursued multiple avenues, including parliamentary letters, an European Parliament vote, and meetings with ministers, without securing his release.
- UK Foreign Office involvement has included a brief meeting with a senior minister, but advocates say it has not translated into concrete action.
- Dubai and UAE authorities contend due process was followed and medical care is provided to prisoners, insisting the system is independent and fair.
- Campaigners warn that the case could have broader implications for British businesspeople in the UAE, urging clear accountability.
- The case has drawn international attention, including involvement from the Global Magnitsky Justice Campaign and figures like Bill Browder.
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