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Scottish Teen Held in Qatar Over Alleged Drug Courier Case

He is due in a Doha court on January 27 to argue a duress defense.

Overview

  • Lino Neil, 18, was arrested at Hamad International Airport on November 21 during a stopover while traveling from Thailand to Dublin.
  • Authorities found cannabis in his luggage, according to reports, and he was moved from a crowded airport holding cell to Doha’s Central Prison.
  • His family says he was controlled and threatened by a British expatriate who forced him to carry the suitcase.
  • The British Embassy in Doha has visited him following his transfer to the Central Prison, his brother said.
  • Relatives are raising funds for legal fees that could reach £40,000 as UK crime officials warn that gangs are recruiting young Britons as couriers after trips to Southeast Asia.