A British tourist has died in police custody in Dubai after choking on his own vomit, local officials have confirmed. Lee Brown, 39, from east London, was arrested at the Burj Al Arab hotel on 6 April following allegations of physically and verbally abusing a female staff member.
Dubai's attorney general, Issam Al Humaidan, stated that a post-mortem examination concluded Mr Brown's death was caused by suffocation after vomit entered his respiratory tract. He expressed condolences to the family and insisted that police adhere to the highest standards of human rights.
The UK Foreign Office has called for a full investigation amid reports that Mr Brown was assaulted by officers. A spokesperson said: 'We can confirm Lee Brown's death on 12 April while in police custody. Our thoughts are with Mr Brown's family.' Officials have been in contact with Dubai police at the highest level.
An unnamed police official denied the assault claims, telling local media that Mr Brown had no bruises or marks. The official said Mr Brown began vomiting the day before his death but did not request medical help. The Detained In Dubai support group reported that UK officials visited the police station before his death but were told Mr Brown did not wish to meet them.
