British TikTok influencer faces execution by firing squad in Dubai over alleged murder
Diaspora
By
Jael Wakesho
| Jun 27, 2026
A British TikTok influencer faces the death penalty in Dubai after allegedly stabbing a man to death in what she says was self-defence, according to advocacy group Detained in Dubai.
According to BBC, Brooke George, 23, who is originally from Kent, has been charged with the murder of a 26-year-old man she had met online.
Dubai police have accused her of premeditated murder; if convicted she could face execution by firing squad, CBS News reports.
George, who posts make-up tutorials and lip-sync videos on TikTok, travelled to Dubai after developing an online romantic relationship with the man.
She described her first visit as “the time of my life,” but Detained in Dubai says she later became worried by aspects of the relationship, including a bikini-clad photo shoot arranged during her first trip.
It is reported that the man’s behaviour changed on George’s second visit, becoming controlling and abusive.
George told friends she saw disturbing videos on his computer and discovered he had booked a one-way ticket, prompting fears she would be unable to leave.
After a night at an Irish bar, DiD alleges the man assaulted her in his car and again at his apartment.
George’s family say she called them in a panic after being hit; she then tried to retrieve her passport but found her belongings scattered.
According to DiD, George says she feared for her life and used a kitchen knife in self-defence, with her mother saying she had never seen her daughter so frightened, adding that one of George’s eyes was badly swollen after the incident.
George was arrested in the early hours of June 22 and is being held at Bur Dubai police station, after she was allegedly forced to strip in front of male officers when no female officers were present.
The 23-year old has reportedly not been allowed to contact the British embassy, and even gave statements without a lawyer.
Dubai Police and the UAE Embassy did not immediately comment. The UK Foreign Office said it is in touch with the detained woman, supporting her family and liaising with local authorities.
Critics are now say the case raises serious concerns about violence against women, the right to self defence, due process and treatment of British nationals abroad, and called for a fair trial and bail while investigations continue.