A British TikTok influencer is facing a possible firing squad if convicted of murder in Dubai after allegedly stabbing a man to death in what she claims was an act of self-defence, according to an advocacy group supporting her case. Get today's headlines by email Brooke George, 23, a former department store worker from Kent, has been charged with the premeditated murder of a 26-year-old man she met through Facebook, according to Detained in Dubai (DiD). The advocacy group says she could face execution by firing squad if found guilty under UAE law. Online Romance Ends in TragedyAccording to DiD, George travelled to Dubai after developing an online relationship with the man. During her first week-long visit, she described the trip as "the time of my life," despite later raising concerns about a professional photo shoot she said had been arranged during her stay. On June 1, George shared photos and videos from Dubai on Instagram with the caption: "God has a plan. Trust it, Live it, Enjoy it." DiD said the relationship deteriorated during her second visit. The group, citing George's account, said the man became increasingly controlling and abusive. George allegedly told friends that "things weren't right" and claimed she discovered disturbing videos on his computer. The group also said George became alarmed after learning that only a one-way ticket had been booked for her return journey, prompting her to make plans to leave the country. Self-Defence ClaimDiD said the incident occurred after the pair returned from an Irish bar, where the man had been drinking. George alleges he assaulted her in the car and continued the attack after they reached his apartment. Her family said she called them in distress after being struck by the man, and they arranged a flight back to Britain. According to DiD, when George returned to collect her belongings and passport, she found her possessions scattered around the apartment. The group said George pleaded for the return of her passport before she was punched in the face and attacked again. She claims she feared for her life and grabbed a nearby kitchen knife, fatally stabbing the man in self-defence. George's mother, Thereza George, said her daughter had appeared quieter than usual the day before the incident but had not explained why. After the alleged stabbing, she said Brooke was crying uncontrollably and had a badly swollen eye. Picture courtesy of Brooke George's Instagram Allegations Over DetentionGeorge was arrested in the early hours of June 22 and is being held at Bur Dubai police station. Detained in Dubai alleges she was forced to strip naked in front of male police officers without female officers present. The group also claims she has not been allowed to contact the British embassy and was required to give statements without legal representation. Dubai Police and the UAE Embassy did not immediately respond to a request from CBS News for comment on the allegations. A spokesperson for the UK's Foreign Office said it was in contact with the detained British woman, supporting her family and liaising with local authorities. Calls for Fair TrialDiD chief executive Radha Stirling said the case raises concerns about violence against women, the right to self-defence, due process and the treatment of British nationals detained overseas. The organisation is calling for George to receive a fair trial and be released on bail while the investigation continues. Stirling also said an increasing number of women, including influencers, models and travellers, have been lured to Dubai with promises of luxury lifestyles, paid work, holidays or romantic relationships before later alleging exploitation, coercion, violence or degrading treatment. The group pointed to previous cases involving foreign women, including Irish national Tori Towey, who was detained in 2024 after attempting to flee alleged domestic abuse. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 26 June 2026
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