Police Charge 12-Year-Old in Dundee Incident, Debunking Viral Misinformation Against Bulgarian Man

Dundee, Scotland – A 12-year-old girl has been charged with possession of offensive weapons following an incident in St Ann Lane, Dundee, on Saturday, August 23, 2025. The event, which involved Bulgarian national Fatos Ali Dumana, 21, quickly became the subject of widespread social media misinformation, prompting Police Scotland to issue a strong warning against unverified claims.

Fatos Ali Dumana, a legal migrant who has resided in the UK for four years and moved to Dundee in June 2021, was with his wife, Fatos Yulianova, 19, when the confrontation occurred. Mr. Dumana, a "digital creator" and father of an eight-month-old baby, denied any wrongdoing. He stated he was on his way to a shop when the girl stopped him, adding, "I never touched her. I didn't hit her, I swear on my life, I have a baby now. I would never hurt someone."

The incident gained significant traction online, with figures like Elon Musk and far-right activist Tommy Robinson amplifying false narratives. These claims suggested Mr. Dumana was an illegal migrant or had harassed the girls, portraying the 12-year-old as defending herself. Police Scotland has confirmed there is no evidence to support allegations against Mr. Dumana, asserting that he did not commit any offense.

Chief Superintendent Nicola Russell of Police Scotland's Tayside division addressed the public, stating, "We are aware of misinformation being shared on social media in relation to an incident where a Bulgarian couple were approached by youths in St Ann Lane, Dundee." She emphasized that the 12-year-old girl was charged and will be referred to relevant authorities, urging the public "not to share misinformation about this incident or speculate on the circumstances."

The viral spread of unverified information has highlighted concerns about online disinformation. Former Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf commented on X, dismissing the far-right narratives and stressing the importance of social cohesion. The incident underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in countering false claims that can quickly escalate and distort public perception of events.