The family of a man from Co Tyrone has voiced their concerns after he was detained in Dubai for posting a negative review online about a dog grooming service he formerly worked for.
Craig Ballentine, 33, hailing from Cookstown, was captured upon his return to the country for a two-week holiday.
He is being held under the strict cybercrime laws prevalent in the region regarding online criticism.
A conviction could result in a year-long prison sentence and a fine exceeding €25,000.
His family describes the charges he potentially faces as “rather absurd”.
“The idea of Craig facing prison time for a Google review is simply appalling; we are all experiencing sleepless nights and heightened anxiety.
“It’s something I never thought could happen.”
This situation traces back to 2023 when Mr. Ballentine was employed at the dog grooming service in Dubai for several months.
After falling ill, he took two days off sick and provided the necessary documentation to his employer.
However, advocates claim the business reported him as having absconded, allegedly breaching local employment laws.
He spent several months in uncertainty while trying to resolve the issue.
During this time, he was prohibited from leaving the country or seeking other employment.
After returning to Northern Ireland, he posted a negative Google review about the business online.
He was detained upon his return for a short holiday a few weeks ago.
The campaign group Detained in Dubai stated that the company had not reached out to him regarding the review.
“We are advocating for diplomatic intervention in Craig’s situation. No one should be imprisoned abroad or subjected to legal proceedings over an online review.
“We are optimistic about a favorable outcome for Craig,” a spokesperson commented.
His mother mentioned that his former employer could have simply requested him to remove the review.
“This has gone too far. He did not use offensive language; he merely expressed his opinions, which is the purpose of review platforms.
“We urge the government, the foreign office, and authorities in Dubai to allow our son to return home.”
Detained in Dubai reported that they have handled thousands of similar cases.
This incident parallels that of Irish woman Tori Towey, who returned to Dublin in July after a travel ban imposed by Dubai was lifted.
The issue had been raised in the Dáil by Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, who noted that Ms. Towey was unable to leave even after experiencing domestic violence.
After being assaulted in her residence, she faced charges related to attempted suicide and alcohol consumption.
Those charges were eventually dismissed.
