Abu Dhabi: Ten defendants have been sentenced to up to six months in prison and fined up to AED 300,000 each following a hotel brawl.
The Abu Dhabi Criminal Court issued a verdict convicting 10 defendants involved in a mass brawl, filming the incident, and causing chaos inside a hotel following previous disputes. The court sentenced six defendants to six months in prison, fined each of them AED 300,000, and ordered their deportation after serving their sentences. These convictions stemmed from offences including disturbing public order, spreading panic, and endangering lives.
The court also fined two defendants AED 50,000 each on related charges, including disturbing public order and assault.
The court convicted the ninth and tenth defendants of violating privacy and using the internet to film and publish videos of the altercation. Both were sentenced to six months in prison, fined AED 300,000 each, and ordered to be deported upon completing their sentences. The mobile phones used in the incident were confiscated, and the videos were deleted.
The ruling follows investigations conducted by the Abu Dhabi Public Prosecution based on a police referral. Police had previously apprehended those directly involved in the altercation, along with two other individuals who filmed and shared the footage. The necessary legal procedures were taken against them before they were referred to the competent court, which issued the convictions.
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department affirmed its commitment to the firm application of applicable laws and legislation against anyone who commits acts that disrupt public security or endanger the safety of individuals. It emphasised that law enforcement authorities are resolutely committed to imposing penalties on violators, upholding the rule of law, maintaining public order, and protecting the security and stability of society.