The family of a British woman facing a life sentence in a Dubai prison has been plunged into further despair after a critical online fundraiser for her legal battle was abruptly removed without explanation.
Alicia Galiotti, a mother, was arrested in May at Dubai International Airport after authorities allegedly discovered a minuscule amount of cannabis resin—smaller than a 1p coin—in a suitcase she says was given to her by an acquaintance. Despite maintaining her innocence, she was swiftly convicted and handed a devastating life sentence under the United Arab Emirates' strict drug laws.
Vital Support Vanishes Overnight
Her family launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for a crucial appeal, a last-ditch effort to overturn the verdict. The campaign had successfully gathered significant support from the public. However, in a shocking turn of events, the page was suddenly taken down.
The removal of the fundraiser has left Alicia's loved ones scrambling for answers and has cut off a vital lifeline for her mounting legal fees. The family has expressed utter confusion and frustration, stating they received no clear reason from the platform for the page's deletion.
A Pattern of Legal Peril for Brits Abroad
This case highlights the extreme perils faced by British nationals caught in the UAE's legal system, where zero-tolerance drug policies can lead to severe sentences for even the most minor offences. Advocacy groups have repeatedly warned travellers about the risks, but cases like Alicia's continue to occur.
Her family now faces a dual battle: fighting for her freedom in a foreign court and desperately seeking to reinstate the financial support needed to fund that very fight. The clock is ticking on her appeal, adding immense pressure to an already horrific situation.
This story is developing.
