Craig Ballentine, a Northern Irish man, was arrested in Abu Dhabi for posting a negative Google review about his former employer in Dubai. Detained under UAE’s strict cybercrime laws, he faces slander charges and is currently unable to leave the country while awaiting legal resolution. His predicament has caused significant distress and financial strain.
Craig Ballentine, a 33-year-old care worker from Northern Ireland, has expressed his trauma following his recent arrest in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over a negative Google review he posted about his former employer. Mr. Ballentine was detained upon arrival at Abu Dhabi airport in October after his online comments led to accusations of slander, which falls under the UAE’s stringent cybercrime laws. Although he has since been released from custody, he remains unable to leave the country while awaiting resolution of his case. The incident traces back to Mr. Ballentine’s employment at a dog grooming salon in Dubai, where he worked for six months until illness required him to take time off. When he provided a doctor’s note but did not return to work, the salon reported him as an “absconder,” resulting in a travel ban that took two months and significant financial resources to lift. After returning to Northern Ireland, he penned a detailed online review of his experience that he felt necessary to share. However, upon his visit back to the UAE for a short holiday, his review led to his immediate arrest and transfer to Dubai. Mr. Ballentine’s family and friends grew anxious when he failed to contact them for an extended period post-arrival. It was only after a local man assisted him with phone credit that he could inform his family that he was safe. He is currently residing with a friend in Dubai while being unable to work, leaving him financially strained and uncertain about the duration of the legal process he faces. His friend, Sean Morgan, has described the situation as “ludicrous,” emphasizing the absurdity of a potential lengthy stay in the UAE due to a mere online review. In a plea for intervention, campaigners, including Mr. Morgan, have reached out to Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, and have solicited assistance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO). The FCDO has confirmed its involvement, stating that it is providing support and has communicated with local authorities. Mr. Ballentine remains hopeful yet troubled by the personal and financial difficulties that have arisen due to this ordeal, with advocates continuing to work towards resolving his unfortunate situation.
The case involving Craig Ballentine underscores the severe implications of online commentary within the UAE, where strict cybercrime laws can lead to severe legal penalties for slander. This situation also highlights potential challenges faced by expatriates navigating employment and legal frameworks in foreign countries. Mr. Ballentine’s experience is illustrative of broader concerns regarding freedom of expression and the safety of individuals who engage with online platforms to voice their grievances.
Craig Ballentine’s arrest in the UAE for a negative online review presents significant concerns regarding personal freedoms and the repercussions of digital expression in a foreign legal context. Despite his release, the unresolved nature of his case keeps him in a vulnerable state, leading to both emotional distress and financial hardship. Advocacy efforts by friends and family, alongside governmental inquiries, illustrate the critical need for awareness and intervention in similar cases.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
