Overview

The charges against Tori Towey, an Irish woman detained in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have been withdrawn, according to a lawyer assisting her case.

Incident Details

Towey, a 28-year-old from Roscommon, faced charges including attempted suicide and consuming alcohol. Her passport was destroyed in the process. She had been working as a flight attendant in Dubai, the largest city in the UAE.

Legal and Government Support

Radha Stirling, a lawyer and human rights advocate from the Detained in Dubai group, announced the good news. She expressed gratitude for the public, media, and Irish government support. Stirling hoped Towey’s airport transit would go smoothly without further complications.

Government Response

The UAE government has not yet commented on the case. However, earlier statements from Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister) Simon Harris revealed that a travel ban preventing Towey from leaving the UAE had been lifted. Harris assured that the Irish embassy would assist Towey in reaching the airport and continue to follow up on her case.

Harris emphasized the unacceptable treatment of Towey, who was a victim of male violence. He described her ordeal of waking up in a police station rather than a hospital after a brutal attack as unimaginable.

Family Relief and Future Plans

Towey’s aunt, Ann Flynn, shared her relief during an interview with BBC Radio Foyle’s North West Today program. She expressed hope that Towey and her family would soon return home to start a new chapter. Flynn also praised those who helped bring attention to her niece’s case.

Timeline of Events

• 28 June: After an alleged assault, Towey is charged with attempting suicide.
• 9 July: Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald raises Towey’s situation in the Dáil, noting her destroyed passport and travel ban. Taoiseach Simon Harris pledges the Irish government’s support.
• 10 July: Harris speaks with Towey, noting her increased optimism. He later confirms the lifting of the travel ban and her preparations to travel home.

International Attention

The case gained international attention after Mary Lou McDonald raised it in the Dáil. She emphasized that Towey, a victim of severe domestic violence, had her passport destroyed and was banned from travel. McDonald called on the Irish government to demand fair treatment for Towey and all women in similar situations. The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed it was aware of the case and providing consular assistance.