British National Detained in Dubai Without Explanation
A British citizen, Ryan Pepper, has been held in Dubai for more than seven months without any clear explanation, meaningful legal access, or private communication with his family, according to the human rights organization Detained in Dubai.
Ryan Pepper, 27, originally from Ashford in Kent, is reported to have suffered physical beatings, threats, and psychological abuse during his imprisonment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The group further stated that Pepper was hospitalized due to injuries believed to be the result of assaults sustained while in custody.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been contacted for comment on the matter. Meanwhile, the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirmed it is providing support to a British man detained in the UAE.
Allegations of Abuse and Isolation
Detained in Dubai revealed that Pepper managed to smuggle out handwritten notes from custody, in which he stated that
"everyone was beaten up"inside the detention facility where he was held.
His family reported that he was subjected to approximately 20 days of isolation during his detention and expressed fears that he might die while in custody.
Ryan Pepper was initially detained in Dubai on 3 November.
Concerns Raised Over Treatment of British Nationals
Detained in Dubai has raised urgent concerns about arbitrary detention, allegations of torture, and the broader treatment of British nationals held in UAE custody.
An FCDO spokesperson stated:
"We are in contact with his family and continue to raise the case directly with the local authorities.
"The UK takes all allegations of torture and mistreatment extremely seriously and will always raise these with relevant authorities with the individuals' consent."
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