British boxer David Haye has been accused of bouncing a cheque for nearly half a million dollars in Dubai and has reportedly had his passport confiscated by Dubai Police as they investigate the matter.
The former world heavyweight champion was questioned by Bur Dubai police after the bounced cheque was flagged up by authorities upon his arrival at Dubai International Airport two weeks ago.
The 34-year-old is in the process of setting up a Hayemaker gym in Dubai and claims the cheque, valued at AED1.8 million ($490,070), is in relation to a payment due on completion of construction of the property to house it.
“The cheque was presented to the bank four days before I landed. It was not due to be presented until final completion of my property, which is due in a few weeks,” he was quoted as saying by The Sun newspaper.
“This was an administrative error which is being rectified. I explained to the police and presented documents as proof. But I totally understand these mistakes can happen.”
The developer working with Haye on the gym building is Emaar.
Bouncing a cheque is a criminal offence in the UAE and Haye and two of his associates have surrendered their passports to Bur Dubai police while the matter is being investigated.
London-based Haye was due to present an event on Sunday for the British Association of Mixed Martial Arts in the UK but confirmed in a video on his Instagram account that he was unable to attend as he was “stuck” in Dubai.
Representatives for Haye and Emaar have been contacted for comment.
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