Desert Safari boss arrested for tourist rape

The director of a desert safari company in Dubai has been arrested for allegedly raping a Russian tourist, according to local media reports.

Khaleej Times reported that the 40-year-old Asian safari company boss attempted to evade arrest by fleeing across the emirates - to Dubai, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Quwain and then to Ras Al Khaimah. Dubai Police said they arrested him 48 hours after the rape, with the help of Ras Al Khaimah Police.

According to the woman, following the safari tour, the man tricked her into going back to his home where he raped her, before taking her back to her hotel and offering to buy her electronics and other goods.

The suspect has denied the rape and claims that the woman - who had organised the desert safari through her hotel - seduced him and then blackmailed him for AED 200,000.