British mother facing Malaysia death penalty
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A British mother-of-two is facing the death penalty in Malaysia after police raided a resort she was running with her husband and allegedly uncovered an estimated £16,000 of illegal drugs.
Shivaun Orton, 41, from Bangor, North Wales, and her Malaysian husband Abdul Harris Fadilah, 46, were arrested on the border of Pahang and Terengganu states after the raid on December 13.
Police are said to have found drugs including cannabis, ecstasy and amphetamines after searching the Ranting Resort, in Cherating, which is popular with backpackers. More than 225 grams of heroin was allegedly found nearby.
The couple, who have sons aged 14 and 16, are being held in Kemaman police station in Terengganu state.
Possession of illegal drugs in Malaysia can carry the death penalty.
A spokesman from the Foreign Office in London said he was aware a British national had been arrested in Malaysia on December 13.
He said: "We are in close contact with the authorities. We are providing consular assistance."
The spokesman said he believed charges were yet to be laid.
He added the British Government was "completely opposed to the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, and we will continue to work on its abolition worldwide".
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments