A BRITISH teenager jailed in Dubai over a holiday fling has begged for mercy.
Marcus Fakana, 19, has submitted a plea for clemency to the country’s ruler.
The Brit teen is being held at the harsh Al Awir prison[/caption]
He was sentenced to a year in prison for having consensual sex with a 17-year-old British girl.
Both Marcus and his young lover had met while on holiday with their families.
Marcus, who was 18 at the time, has been held for months in the harsh Al Awir prison.
He has now pinned his hopes on a pardon from Dubai’s leader, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Radha Stirling, founder of Detained in Dubai, which is supporting the teen’s family, said: “This has been the most traumatic and life-altering experience imaginable for Marcus.
“He is barely an adult himself and never intended to break any law.
“What happened was legal in the UK and consensual.
“But now he is facing permanent damage to his mental health and future prospects.”
Prison conditions are reportedly taking a toll on Marcus, who is said to have only limited contact with his family.
His parents, from Tottenham, North London, have made repeated appeals to Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP.
They have also asked the British Embassy in Dubai to help secure his release.
Ms Stirling added: “Marcus has shown remorse and fully respects the laws of the UAE.
“He only hopes the government will show compassion and allow him to return home to rebuild his life.
“We implore Sheikh Mohammed to hear his pleas.”
