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"Ibn Battuta Mall" Visit
Raymone Bain, press release
Contrary to published and broadcast reports today, Mr. Jackson mistakenly entered a ladies room in Dubai, labeled in Arabic, during an outing with friends. Upon realizing his mistake, he quickly exited. Upon his exit, he was recognized and a crowd ensued. He had to wait in a nearby bookstore until police arrived to escort him through the crowd.
The crowds thronging the mall were convinced that they had seen pop icon Michael Jackson.
Eyewitnesses said the tall and thin man, dressed in a black cloak and black hat, was spotted at around 7.30pm in the restroom by a woman, who immediately raised the alarm.
The alarm sparked chaotic scenes for more than three hours, with the mall's security staff chasing the person, who sought refuge at the Magrudy's bookshop.
Police in large numbers quickly descended on the store.
By this time, people at the mall were convinced that it was Michael Jackson, prompting even more passers-by to join the throng. Eyewitnesses said the police now appeared to be trying to ensure safe passage for the mystery man.
A bystander who said he had managed to speak to the man who had hidden inside a stall said he had replied with a strong American accent. "He said: 'I was at the wrong place at the wrong time.'"
A Filipina managing a nearby popcorn stall told Gulf News: "It was definitely Michael Jackson." A security guard at the mall concurred.
Another eye-witness told Gulf News the mystery man was wearing gloves, although he was not sure about their colour.
Later police denied any knowledge of the incident, and Magrudy's could not be reached for comment.
Fans were, however, still convinced they had seen the US pop star in the flesh.
But had it really been Michael Jackson in the mall, after all?