A British teen arrested in Qatar faces serious drug smuggling charges after transiting through Thailand. The case draws concern among expats and tourists due to strict regional drug laws.
Qatari authorities detained 18-year-old Lino Neil at Hamad International Airport in Doha on November 21. The arrest occurred during a stopover on his journey from Thailand to Scotland. Officials accuse him of carrying cannabis, an offence punished harshly under Qatari law.
Family claims coercion in British teen arrested in Qatar case
Neil’s family states that criminal networks forced him to transport the drugs. His mother says a British man controlled her son and issued threats against him and his family. Neil had turned 18 one month earlier and worked in the fishing industry.
Legal costs and detention conditions
The family estimates legal expenses at about 1.73 million Thai baht, equal to roughly £40,000. The Thai baht is Thailand’s national currency and is widely used by residents and visitors. Supporters raised around 108,000 baht so far.
Authorities later transferred Neil from airport detention to Doha Central Prison. His family reports weight loss and limited food. They describe ongoing distress during phone calls.
Court case and official support for British teen arrested in Qatar
Neil is scheduled to appear in court on January 27. He plans to argue coercion. The United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirms contact with the family and Qatari authorities.
The case of a British teen arrested in Qatar highlights the risks tied to international travel and drug laws in the region. For expats and tourists in Thailand, it underscores the importance of caution during travel and transit through countries with strict legal systems.
