A British tourist has shared his distressing experience of being detained in Turkey under mistaken circumstances. Carl Ratcliffe, aged 47, traveled with his fiancée, Natalia Flynn, 49, to the upscale Susona Hotel in Bodrum for what was meant to be an enjoyable eight-day vacation starting on June 10. However, their holiday turned into a nightmare.

Just two days into their trip, Carl, who suffers from a severe form of asthma, suffered a life-threatening asthma attack during an evening walk. He was swiftly taken to Bodrum American Hospital where he was put into a medically induced coma, only waking up three days later.

While awaiting clearance to fly back home, Carl experienced another asthma episode on June 23 after watching a football match between England and Ghana at a local bar. Despite fellow vacationers calling for an ambulance, Turkish authorities, allegedly mistaking his asthma attack for intoxication, arrested him.

Carl contends that he was taken into custody, where he asserts he was threatened with violence if he did not comply with the officers’ demands. Following tests that proved he had no alcohol in his system, he was released the next day but was prohibited from leaving the country by a judge.

The ordeal has left Carl stranded in Turkey for over a month, with mounting debts that include accommodation costs, legal fees, living expenses, and mortgage payments back in the UK. Reflecting on his experience, Carl voiced his concerns about the treatment he received and the uncertainty of his situation.

These events unfolded after a brief period of enjoyment during their stay, which included Carl proposing to Natalia. However, the need for a fit-to-fly certificate extended their stay, leading to the unfortunate incident at the bar.

Despite the challenges, Carl remains hopeful for a resolution and a safe return home. His mother, Francine Kelly, expressed her distress over the situation, urging for his safe return. The Foreign Office has confirmed they are assisting Carl in Turkey and liaising with local authorities.

Efforts to seek comments from the Bodrum Police and Bodrum American Hospital regarding the incident are ongoing. Additionally, a crowdfunding campaign has been set up to support Carl during this challenging time.