Dubai, UAE – A 35-year-old Arab woman has been sentenced to 10 years in prison and fined Dh100,000 for drug possession and consumption, the Dubai Criminal Court ruled.
The court also ordered her deportation following the completion of her sentence and imposed a two-year financial transaction ban restricting her from transferring or depositing money without prior approval from the UAE Central Bank in coordination with the Ministry of Interior.
The case dates back to April last year when Dubai Police’s anti-narcotics unit received a tip-off regarding the woman’s involvement in drug-related activities near Al Twar, close to Al Qiyadah Metro Station.
According to court records, investigations revealed that she had been procuring narcotics through social media platforms and transferring payments to local bank accounts before receiving instructions on where to collect the drugs.
A police officer involved in the case testified that the woman had recently purchased drugs worth Dh500. She transferred the amount to a bank account and subsequently received a WhatsApp message detailing the pickup location.
Dubai Police set up a sting operation and arrested her near her residence while she was driving. A search of her vehicle uncovered quantities of banned substances.
Forensic tests later confirmed drug use, and during interrogation, the woman admitted to obtaining the narcotics from an individual outside the country. The evidence presented led to her conviction and subsequent sentencing by the court.
The UAE maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy on drug-related offenses, with severe penalties including long-term imprisonment, hefty fines, and deportation for expatriates.
Authorities have intensified their crackdown on narcotics trafficking and consumption, utilizing advanced monitoring techniques and public cooperation to curb illegal activities.
Dubai Police continue to urge residents to report any suspicious activities related to drug use or trafficking. The authorities emphasize the importance of community involvement in maintaining the country’s strict stance against narcotics and ensuring public safety.
The woman’s sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the stringent legal consequences individuals face for violating the UAE’s drug laws.
With increased surveillance and law enforcement efforts, authorities remain committed to upholding the nation’s commitment to a drug-free society.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members