The mother of a prominent social media figure on TikTok, who is currently facing the possibility of being executed by firing squad in Dubai, has shared her family’s anguish in a recent statement.
Brooke George, a 23-year-old model with a substantial online following, is under scrutiny for the alleged killing of another British national, Bill Treeby, 26, whom she met through social media. George, a former employee of John Lewis, connected with Treeby on Facebook before traveling to Dubai.
Expressing her distress, Brooke’s mother, Thereza, described the situation as deeply overwhelming. She portrayed her daughter as a determined and compassionate individual who always approached life with vigor, believing in endless possibilities and demonstrating a resilient personality.
Thereza has initiated a fundraising effort via JustGiving, aiming to collect £75,000 to finance legal fees and associated expenses for Brooke’s defense in Dubai. She emphasized the family’s plea for any form of assistance, highlighting the crucial role of community support during this challenging period.
According to Detained in Dubai, an advocacy group representing Brooke, she asserts that the stabbing incident was an act of self-defense after enduring repeated assaults from Treeby. Treeby himself had prior legal issues, including charges related to drug offenses and violence against women.
Treeby, whose father was tragically killed in a property dispute in 2009, faced criminal charges linked to drug trafficking in Maidstone. Brooke, a resident of Gravesend, Kent, is currently detained at Bur Dubai police station.
During her stay in Dubai, George initially had a positive experience but encountered distress during her second visit, where she alleges mistreatment by Treeby. An altercation unfolded at an apartment after a night out, leading to George defending herself with a kitchen knife. Subsequently, she was apprehended at Dubai International Airport while attempting to return home.
Following her arrest, George reported being subjected to degrading treatment, including being forced to undress in front of male officers without legal representation or translation services. The lack of legal aid has raised concerns over her rights and fair treatment in custody.
Detained in Dubai’s CEO expressed deep apprehension over the severity of the charge against Brooke and the absence of adequate legal support. The case has drawn attention to the vulnerability of individuals, particularly women, who are enticed to Dubai under false pretenses and subsequently face exploitation and legal challenges.
The UK Foreign Office confirmed they are liaising with authorities in the UAE regarding the detention of the British citizen.