Dubai: Man Jailed, Fined Dh247,000 for Armed Robbery in Naif Area

The Dubai Criminal Court has sentenced a Moroccan man to three years in prison for armed robbery and unlawful detention. In addition, he has been fined Dh247,000, equivalent to the amount stolen during the crime. The court has also ordered his deportation after serving his sentence.

Incident Overview: Armed Robbery in Naif

On the evening of March 30, 2024, the Moroccan defendant, along with unidentified accomplices, forcibly entered a travel and tourism office in Dubai’s Naif area.

How the Crime Unfolded

• The Moroccan suspect posed as a visitor and knocked on the office door.

• When the employee, a Guinean national, opened the door, five masked men stormed inside, locked the door, and restrained the employee.

• Armed with machetes, the group assaulted the victim and coerced him into handing over the safe key.

The suspects stole Dh247,000, which belonged to the company owner, before fleeing the scene.

Victim’s Testimony: Details of the Assault

In court, the victim recounted the harrowing experience:

"After I opened the door, a number of masked men stormed in carrying machetes. They assaulted me, grabbed the safe key from my pocket, and stole the money."

Police Investigation and Arrest

The victim immediately reported the incident to the police, sparking an investigation that led to the Moroccan defendant’s arrest.

Initial Confession and Claims of Coercion

During questioning, the defendant confessed to his involvement but claimed he was coerced by accomplices.

• He alleged that three men of African descent attacked him in Sharjah a day before the robbery, stole his belongings, and forced him to participate in the crime in exchange for their return.

• He also claimed the accomplices had a vendetta against the business owner for non-payment after delivering liquor.

The court, however, dismissed his claims due to lack of credible evidence.

Key Evidence Against the Defendant

1. Surveillance Footage: Security cameras captured the defendant’s involvement.

2. Witness Testimony: The victim identified the defendant during a police line-up.

3. Court Findings: The defendant’s confession and evidence provided by police officers confirmed his active role in the crime.

Acquittal of Three Co-Defendants

Three Nigerian co-defendants were acquitted due to insufficient evidence.

• Witness testimonies contained inconsistencies.

• There was no definitive proof linking them to the crime scene.

Legal Consequences and Deportation

The Moroccan defendant will serve a three-year prison sentence, pay Dh247,000, and face deportation after completing his term.

This case underscores the UAE's stringent measures against armed robbery and its commitment to justice.

For any enquiries or information, contact info@thelawreporters.com or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels