Radio DJ’s ordeal: ‘I want it to end’

BBC Radio One DJ Raymond Bingham aka Grooverider, who was arrested at the Dubai airport on November 23 for carrying cannabis and pornographic material said he was coping well in jail here.

"I’m alright, it could have definitely been worse. I spend my time reading and catching up on things in here," he said.

"I have no clue what’s happening on the outside, but I hope for all this to end soon," he added.

Bingham, 40, who is known as the ‘Godfather of Drum and Bass’ (electronic dance music), expressed dismay at British Consulate officials in Dubai.

"The British Consulate officials are a joke. They just threw me leaflets and that was that," said Bingham. "This is ridiculous. I must have forgotten the spliff. It was a small amount. Back home I would not even get prosecuted."

The British Consulate declined to comment on the case but according to Simon Goldsmith, second secretary, political and media affairs, it is offering consular assistance.

The consulate’s website offers clear warning about what it can – and can’t – do to help British citizens.

Bingham, who was to perform at the Lodge on November 23, was on his second visit to the city. "I just want this to end and leave, I never want to come back."

Bingham could be facing four years in jail in Dubai. The court date has not been disclosed yet.