A British stand-up comedian from the Cotswolds has been detained in Turkey after allegedly leaving a Zara store without paying for items. Cerys Nelmes, a former firefighter and rising star in Bristol's comedy scene, was arrested on July 22 and now faces a potential three-year prison sentence.
In an emotional Facebook post, Nelmes explained that she immediately returned the merchandise and attempted to pay, but was taken to a locked room and later arrested. She claims she was held in a police station for 24 hours without food or toilet facilities, and when she asked for water, officers allegedly did not understand her.
Nelmes appeared in court where an interpreter informed her of the possible three-year sentence. She was released but told she cannot leave Turkey for an undetermined period. She fears losing her home and livelihood, as she cannot earn money while detained.
“I made a mistake which I tried to immediately rectify,” Nelmes said. “I am embarrassed for my friends and family.” She has appealed for her story to be shared to help her return to the UK. The Foreign Office confirmed it is providing assistance to a British national in Turkey.
