First Minister Michelle O’Neill and the UK Foreign Office are providing support to a Northern Ireland man who was arrested in the United Arab Emirates after posting a Google review. Craig Ballentine, an autism support worker, was detained in Abu Dhabi due to allegations of slander related to a review he wrote about his former employer in Dubai. The UAE has strict cybercrime laws that prohibit any form of online criticism.
Craig, a 33-year-old man from Co Tyrone, had previously worked in Dubai but faced legal issues after informing his ex-boss about his fibromyalgia condition. His ex-boss reported him as “absconded” to the authorities, leading to a series of legal troubles for Craig. Despite eventually returning to Northern Ireland, Craig had to fight to have a travel ban lifted from his passport, which was a costly and lengthy process.
After leaving an online review detailing the challenges he faced in Dubai, Craig is now facing the possibility of two years in a Dubai jail. Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, a group that assists individuals in legal trouble in the Gulf States, is advocating for Craig’s release. She emphasized the potential impact of Craig’s case on other tourists and expats who may feel safe posting online from their home countries.
Stirling has urged First Minister Michelle O’Neill to intervene diplomatically on Craig’s behalf, citing a similar case where Ireland assisted a citizen in returning home. Despite deleting the post and issuing an apology, Craig remains stuck in the UAE and is at risk of imprisonment. Stirling highlighted the problematic nature of the UAE’s Cybercrime laws, which allow for criminal prosecution based on a mere complaint of offense.
The FCDO has confirmed that they are in contact with local authorities in the UAE to provide support to Craig. A Sinn Fein spokesperson stated that the First Minister will closely monitor the situation and offer support to Craig’s family. Stirling emphasized the urgent need for Craig to return home and resume his life, condemning the frivolous criminal reports that are disrupting the lives of visitors in the UAE.
The case serves as a cautionary tale for individuals posting online in foreign countries, highlighting the potential legal risks involved. The lack of safeguards and protections under the UAE’s Cybercrime laws poses a significant threat to foreigners in the country. It is essential for travelers to be aware of the legal implications of their online activities in countries with strict censorship laws.
