Abu Dhabi Federal Court Issues Sentences To Bangladeshis For Riots

The Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal has sentenced 57 Bangladeshi nationals for inciting riots across the UAE. On Sunday, three individuals received life imprisonment for calling for demonstrations to pressure their home government. Additionally, 53 others were given ten-year prison terms, and one individual, who entered the country illegally and participated in the riot, was sentenced to eleven years.

Chancellor Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, UAE Attorney-General, ordered an immediate investigation into the arrested Bangladeshi nationals on Friday. The investigation, led by a team of 30 prosecutors, confirmed their involvement in public gatherings aimed at inciting disorder and disrupting public security. The defendants also recorded and disseminated audiovisual footage of these actions online.

During the trial, which was covered by the media, several defendants confessed to the crimes they were accused of. The Public Prosecution demanded the maximum penalty for those involved. A witness testified that the defendants organised large-scale protests in several streets of the UAE against decisions made by the Bangladeshi government.

The court also ordered their deportation at the end of their prison terms and confiscated all seized devices. The police had warned the protesters to disperse during the riots, but they did not comply. This led to further disruption of public security, obstruction of law enforcement, and endangerment of both public and private property.

The defence lawyer appointed by the court argued that there was no criminal intent behind the gathering and claimed that the evidence was insufficient. However, despite these arguments, the court found enough evidence to convict them accordingly.

Public Reaction and Legal Proceedings

The Public Prosecution's demand for maximum penalties reflected the severity with which these actions were viewed. The court's decision underscores a strict stance against unlawful assemblies and riots within the UAE. The legal proceedings highlighted how quickly authorities responded to maintain order and security.

The swift action taken by Chancellor Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi emphasises the UAE's commitment to upholding public safety and legal order. This case serves as a reminder of the consequences faced by those who engage in activities that threaten public peace.

The sentences handed down by the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal demonstrate a firm approach towards maintaining law and order in response to civil unrest. By imposing severe penalties on those found guilty of inciting riots, it sends a clear message about zero tolerance for such disruptions.

With inputs from WAM