US Navy vet's Dubai nightmare: Jailed for pain meds possession

The United States Navy veteran faces up to three years in prison in Dubai for possessing prescription medications used to treat chronic pain.

Charles Wimberly, 52, was detained at DXB airport on September 27 after officers found ibuprofen and prescription CBD oil in his possession.

Disabled Navy veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Charles uses the medication to manage pain from degenerative spine disease.

Hailing from Covington, Georgia, Charles arrived in Dubai on September 21 and spent his six days there on tours and sightseeing.

As he prepared to board his flight home, he encountered "every tourist's nightmare" when his luggage was scanned at security. Airport staff discovered the medications, and despite presenting prescriptions, Charles was detained and taken into custody.

Charles is currently facing a three-year sentence for allegedly "trafficking" his own prescription medication, and worst of all, he might miss an important surgery in the US due to his enforced stay in Dubai.

Charles was locked up and deprived of his prescription medications as well as those used to treat diabetes and sleep apnea, which caused him health issues, said Radha Stirling, who is assisting him in his release efforts.

As highlighted by "The Mirror", his family, particularly his daughter, is extremely worried about his health.

According to the latest reports, the American was released on bail, but he cannot leave the country and must pay for hotel accommodations.

According to official regulations, as highlighted on various government websites, when traveling to the United Arab Emirates, you may bring a supply of medication for up to three months. However, some popular medications are strictly controlled or even banned in the UAE, which can result in detention at the border.