Ras Al Khaimah Triple-Murder Trial Opens as Victims’ Family Urges Death Penalty

The Ras Al Khaimah Criminal Court has begun hearings in a triple-murder case that has deeply shaken the UAE, with the victims’ family requesting the death penalty for the accused. The first session was held earlier, though the son of one of the victims was unable to attend due to financial difficulties in securing legal representation.

During the session, the defence lawyer argued that the defendant is mentally unstable and suffers from psychological disorders, requesting that he be referred to a specialised hospital. The court has directed a full mental and psychological assessment before continuing with the proceedings.

The case centres on the fatal shooting of a 66-year-old woman and her two daughters, aged 36 and 38. A third daughter, 47, survived with injuries. Public prosecutors had completed their investigation earlier and referred the file to court. Additional hearings are expected in the coming weeks.

Details of the Incident


Maher Salem Wafai, the son of the deceased mother and brother of the victims, recounted the horrific events to local media. His mother and four sisters were at home when an argument escalated, leading the 55-year-old suspect, of Yemeni nationality, to open fire, according to local media reports.

Wafai described, “Yasmin, 38, was the first victim. He ran her over and shot her in the head. When another sister tried to intervene, he shot her as well. My mother and another sister were also killed as they tried to flee,” local media reports said.

An 11-year-old boy, the son of one of the victims, witnessed the attack but escaped when the suspect attempted to shoot him. Authorities indicated that the dispute reportedly stemmed from a blocked driveway, according to local media reports.

Family’s Appeal for Justice


Despite their profound grief, the family expressed confidence in the UAE’s judicial system, according to local media reports. “This is a country that stands for peace, safety and human dignity. What happened is devastating, but justice will be served,” Wafai said.

He added, “All my sisters were mothers. One of them had six children -- the eldest is just 15. Their lives have been shattered forever,” local media reports said.

The court is expected to continue reviewing evidence and witness testimony in upcoming sessions as the trial progresses, according to local media reports.

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