The woman, sentenced to death for a double murder in Ras Al Khaimah, has her sentence commuted to 15 years following a pardon from the victims’ family.
Pavitra Shetty
Published on January 14, 2025, 20:00:45
In a tragic case that began in 2010, a housemaid in Ras Al Khaimah, identified only as “S,” was sentenced to death for the murder of her employer and arson that led to the death of the employer’s child. After serving 14 years on death row, the victim’s family pardoned her in exchange for Dh700,000 in "blood money," resulting in the commutation of her sentence to 15 years.
Timeline: The crime occurred two weeks after the maid arrived in the UAE from Africa to work for the family.
The Crime: The maid fatally stabbed her employer 17 times during an argument, stole money and jewelry, and set the apartment on fire, resulting in the death of the employer’s one-year-old child.
Concealment Attempt: The fire was meant to hide the evidence, but investigators uncovered stab wounds on the victim’s body, shifting the case from accidental fire to premeditated murder.
Arrest: The maid was arrested after fleeing to a friend’s house in another emirate.
The maid was charged with premeditated murder and arson under UAE law.
Death Sentence: She was sentenced to death after a court trial.
Failed Appeals: Over 14 years, multiple appeals for leniency were rejected.
Rehabilitation: While in prison, the maid embraced Islam, learned tailoring, and displayed exemplary behavior.
Blood Money Agreement: Through persistent legal efforts, the victims’ family was persuaded to pardon her in exchange for Dh700,000 as compensation.
Commutation: The Court of Cassation commuted her sentence to 15 years, of which she has already served 14.
Blood Money (Diya): In cases of intentional killing, UAE law allows for the settlement of cases through payment of blood money. This compensation can lead to a pardon from the victim’s family, reducing or nullifying the sentence.
Death Penalty Laws: Premeditated murder is punishable by death under the UAE Penal Code (Federal Law No. 3 of 1987). However, the sentence may be reduced if the victims' family consents to accept diya.
Arson and Endangerment: Setting a fire that endangers lives carries severe penalties, including imprisonment or death, depending on the outcome.
The case highlights the UAE's legal provisions balancing justice with opportunities for reconciliation through blood money agreements. It also underscores the importance of rehabilitation within the prison system, showcasing the transformative journey of an individual facing the ultimate penalty.
This landmark decision serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding criminal justice and the role of forgiveness in shaping outcomes.
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