The family of Ryan Cornelius, a British businessman serving a lengthy prison sentence in Dubai, has called on the UK government to take urgent action to secure his release. Cornelius, who has already spent 15 years behind bars, faces the grim prospect of a life sentence following a controversial retrial.
A Desperate Plea for Help
Cornelius's daughter, Charlotte, has made an emotional appeal to Foreign Secretary David Lammy, urging him to intervene in her father's case. She claims that her father, now 66, is suffering from severe health issues and may not survive much longer in prison.
Controversial Legal Proceedings
The businessman was originally convicted in 2008 on fraud charges related to a property deal, which he maintains was a legitimate business transaction. After serving his initial sentence, Cornelius faced a retrial in 2021 that resulted in a life sentence - a verdict that has raised serious questions about the fairness of Dubai's judicial system.
Foreign Office Response
The UK Foreign Office has stated that it is providing consular assistance but maintains it cannot interfere in another country's legal processes. This stance has drawn criticism from human rights organizations who argue that more should be done to protect British citizens abroad.
Growing Concerns Over Dubai's Justice System
This case has brought renewed attention to concerns about the UAE's legal system, particularly regarding the treatment of foreign nationals. Several other British citizens have found themselves in similar situations in recent years, leading to calls for the UK government to take a stronger stance.
As Ryan Cornelius's health continues to decline, his family remains hopeful that diplomatic pressure might finally secure his freedom after 15 long years of imprisonment.
