British newspaper editor to be charged over death of woman in Dubai home

Jane Matthew found dead in Jumeirah property

A British expat has been referred to prosecutors in connection with the death of his wife at their home in Dubai.

The 61-year-old, named by Dubai Police as Francis Matthew, was arrested after Jane Matthew was found dead at their villa in Jumeirah.

Dubai Police said in a statement carried by the Dubai Government Media Office: "Francis Matthew, a senior editor at Dubai's Gulf News newspaper, was referred to public prosecution after pleading guilty to the murder of his wife after marital disagreements.

"The prosecution has started investigating the accused, a British national. Investigations are to be completed within days and prosecution is to hear witnesses and reports.
"On Tuesday [July 3], Dubai Police received a call from the accused, reporting that his wife had been physically assaulted by thieves who tried to break into their house, located in Jumeirah.

"Closer examination revealed that the wife, also a a British national, died due to a strong blow to the head... revealing the possible involvement of the husband in the crime.

"The accused confessed to committing the crime in the presence of police officers. He was accordingly referred to court and assigned an accredited legal translator.

"During the prosecution's investigation, the defendant admitted to assaulting his wife, and throwing a hammer at her, saying he never meant to kill her.

"The prosecutors charged the husband for intentional murder according to the Federal Penal Code, and investigations into this case are ongoing."

Abdul Hamid Ahmad, Editor-in-Chief of Gulf News, said in a statement on the newspaper's website: “We are shocked and saddened at this tragedy.

"Francis was editor of the paper from 1995-2005.

"He is a well-respected journalist, known for his keen insight into the Middle East. He was holding the position of Editor at Large at the time of the incident. Both Francis and Jane have played a very active role in the British expatriate community over the past 30 years.

“We pray to the Almighty that her soul rests in peace and that the family is given the strength and patience to overcome this very difficult situation."