UAE imprisons 75 Bangladeshi nationals involved in inciting riots

(MENAFN) The UAE has recently handed down severe penalties to 57 Bangladeshi nationals involved in inciting riots across various streets in the country. According to state news reports, the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal sentenced three individuals to life imprisonment for their roles in organizing demonstrations intended to pressure their home government. An additional 53 defendants received 10-year prison terms for their involvement, while one individual, who entered the UAE illegally and participated in the riots, was given an 11-year sentence. All those convicted will face deportation upon completion of their sentences.

The legal action follows an investigation initiated by UAE Attorney-General Hamad Saif Al-Shamsi, focusing on the activities of these Bangladeshi nationals who were accused of inciting unrest against their home country. Bangladesh has been grappling with violent student-led protests over a contentious job quota scheme, which further fueled the unrest. The investigation, conducted by a team of 30, confirmed that the defendants were actively involved in assembling in public spaces, inciting disturbances, and promoting these gatherings and protests.

During the trial, it was reported that the defendants had recorded and disseminated audiovisual footage of their activities online. A court witness testified that despite police warnings to disperse, the demonstrators continued to organize and lead large-scale marches across several streets in the UAE. These protests were aimed at opposing decisions made by the Bangladeshi government. Several defendants admitted their involvement in the riots, which contributed to the severe penalties imposed by the court.

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