British TikTok Influencer Charged With Murder in Dubai Claims She Acted in Self-Defense

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — A British TikTok influencer is facing a murder charge in Dubai after authorities accused her of fatally stabbing her boyfriend during an incident earlier this week.

Brooke George, 23, of Gravesend, Kent, was arrested in the early hours of June 22 and has been charged with premeditated murder in connection with the death of a man she had been dating after the two met online.

According to advocacy organization Detained in Dubai, George claims she acted in self-defense after her boyfriend allegedly became violent during an argument at their apartment. The organization alleges George told investigators she feared for her life and grabbed a kitchen knife while attempting to defend herself.

If convicted under United Arab Emirates law, George could face the death penalty.

Detained in Dubai said George has alleged she was forced to remove her clothing in front of male officers without a female officer present while being held at Bur Dubai Police Station. The organization also claims she has not been provided access to legal counsel or British consular officials.

George’s mother, Thereza George, said her daughter’s behavior changed after returning to Dubai for a second visit, adding that she appeared frightened and wanted to leave the country. She also said she observed injuries to her daughter’s face after the incident.

Detained in Dubai has called for George to be released on bail and for the case to be investigated as a domestic violence matter. The organization is also requesting that she receive legal representation, medical care, and British consular assistance.

The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed it is assisting a British woman detained in the United Arab Emirates and is in contact with local authorities.

The case remains under investigation.