Northern Ireland Man Detained in UAE Over Negative Online Review

Craig Ballentine, a care worker from Northern Ireland, was arrested in Abu Dhabi after posting a negative Google review about his former employer in Dubai. Detained under UAE slander laws, he remains stuck in the country, unable to work or return home, as advocates push for intervention from political officials to resolve his case.

A Northern Ireland holidaymaker, Craig Ballentine, was detained in Abu Dhabi after he posted a negative review about his former employer in Dubai. The care worker, hailing from County Tyrone, expressed that he feels traumatized by the ordeal that began with his arrest at the airport. Accused of slander under strict UAE cybercrime laws, Mr. Ballentine was released but remains unable to leave the country until his case is resolved. He described his unexpected detention, stating, “I wasn’t expecting when I arrived at Abu Dhabi airport to be detained.” In 2023, Mr. Ballentine worked at a dog grooming salon in Dubai, but after needing time off due to illness, he was incorrectly flagged as an absentee by authorities. Although he eventually lifted the travel ban and returned to Northern Ireland, he wrote a Google review detailing his grievances against the salon. Upon his return to the UAE for a brief holiday in October, he was arrested due to the online comments. His family reported a distressed search for him after he failed to make contact post-landing. Fortunately, a local man aided him in reaching out to assure his family of his safety. Currently residing with a friend in Dubai, Mr. Ballentine cannot work or return home, waiting for his case to proceed. His financial situation is precarious as he remains unable to earn income while stranded abroad. His friend, Sean Morgan, criticized the situation, deeming it “ludicrous” that someone could potentially face lengthy detention over an online review. Behind him stands the advocacy organization, Detained in Dubai, which has garnered support through public awareness campaigns. Amidst this uncertainty, campaigners are seeking intervention from Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, to urge UAE officials for a resolution. While the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has provided some assistance, the community remains hopeful for a timely resolution to allow Mr. Ballentine to return home without further psychological strain or financial hardship.

Craig Ballentine’s arrest sheds light on the implications of the United Arab Emirates’ strictly enforced cybercrime laws, particularly concerning freedom of expression. A former employee at a dog grooming salon in Dubai, Mr. Ballentine found himself accused of slander after writing a review highlighting his challenges with the management. His predicament highlights the cultural and legal complexities in the UAE surrounding online communications and the potential consequences for foreign nationals. Following a prior travel ban that caused considerable distress and financial strain, his latest arrest has generated significant concern from family and friends, leading to an outpouring of support.

Craig Ballentine’s case underscores the risks associated with sharing negative experiences online within jurisdictions that impose stringent speech laws. The legal ramifications of his review have led to arrest, emotional distress, and financial difficulties, igniting a campaign for his release and a broader dialogue about the balance between free speech and legal repercussions in the UAE. His friends and advocacy groups are calling for swift intervention from political leaders to facilitate his safe return home, while he copes with the emotional impact of his situation.

Original Source: www.bbc.com