British Law Student Faces 25 Years in Dubai Prison Over cocaine Possession
DUBAI, UAE – Mia O’Brien, a 21-year-old law student from Huyton, Merseyside, is facing up to 25 years in prison after being arrested and convicted of possessing a “single line of cocaine” in Dubai. The case has sparked outrage and concern for the young woman’s future, highlighting the severe penalties for even minor drug offenses in the United Arab Emirates.
O’Brien, who was studying law at Liverpool University with aspirations of becoming a lawyer or solicitor, was initially held at the Al Barsha detention center before being transferred to Al Awir jail. Her mother, Danielle McKenna, describes the conditions as “vile,” with cells lacking light and unsanitary toilet facilities. The conviction has shattered O’Brien’s dreams,leaving her feeling her life has been “destroyed,” according to her mother.
The incident occurred during a visit to Dubai to see a friend and her boyfriend. McKenna insists her daughter is not a drug user and has no prior criminal record, believing the possession was unintentional and not to sale or personal use. “Mia feels she has destroyed her life as she wanted to be a lawyer or solicitor,” McKenna told the Mail Online. “I speak to her but she can’t say too much on the phone. She’s just made a stupid mistake after going over to see a friend and her boyfriend in Dubai.”
Dubai maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, with penalties ranging from lengthy prison sentences to the death penalty, even for possession of small amounts.British nationals are frequently caught up in the UAE’s strict drug laws, often facing disproportionately harsh sentences compared to those in their home country. The case raises questions about the risks faced by tourists and expatriates in the UAE and the challenges of navigating its legal system. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by family to support legal efforts.