Dubai – A heartbreaking incident involving the death of an eight-year-old autistic girl has sent shockwaves through the Dubai community, as the child’s grandmother has confessed to her murder, according to police authorities.
The girl, an Afghan national, was allegedly strangled by her paternal grandmother, identified as N.K.S., while at home.
The child’s father, who serves as the imam of a mosque in Dubai, told police that he had briefly stepped out of the residence when the incident occurred.
Upon his return, he discovered his daughter lying unresponsive and immediately called for emergency medical assistance.
Paramedics arrived promptly at the scene but declared the girl dead upon examination. Clear signs of strangulation were visible on her neck, prompting suspicions of foul play.
The tragedy unfolded shortly after the grandmother had helped the child change clothes, reportedly using the girl’s own dress to carry out the act.
The father, who had recently brought his elderly parents to Dubai on a visit visa, informed investigators that he had ongoing disagreements with his mother over the care and upbringing of his daughter. He voiced his suspicions to the authorities, which led to an intensive investigation.
Dubai Police dispatched patrol units, criminal investigators, and forensic experts to the scene. Following a series of interrogations, the grandmother ultimately confessed to the crime.
In her statement, she said she was overwhelmed by the burden of caring for the child, claiming she wanted to relieve both her son and daughter-in-law of the responsibility.
Police reports confirmed that the family had been making arrangements to take the girl to India for treatment, indicating that the parents were actively seeking professional care for their child.
The grandmother has since been referred to the Public Prosecution, where she will face legal proceedings. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities prepare the case for trial.
The case has sparked widespread grief and outrage, particularly within the Afghan and wider expatriate communities in the UAE. It has also brought attention to the emotional and psychological challenges families may face while caring for children with special needs.
Advocacy groups have urged for more support systems and counseling services for caregivers who struggle with mental health or emotional stress.
Mental health professionals note that while caregiving can be a demanding role, such tragedies highlight the urgent need for awareness and accessible support structures.
“Families should not feel isolated in their struggles,” said Dr. Lina Ahmed, a psychologist based in Dubai. “There must be avenues for help, especially for those looking after vulnerable children.”
Authorities have called on the public to report any signs of abuse or neglect involving children and stressed the importance of community vigilance and mental health awareness.
The name of the child has not been released in accordance with UAE laws protecting the privacy of minors and their families.
As the legal process unfolds, the community continues to mourn the loss of a young life cut tragically short.