(MENAFN- Muscat Daily) Muscat- A citizen has been arrested for shooting from behind a group of people while they were offering prayers. The incident took the social media by storm.
According to an Royal Oman Police official, the act was intended to be a prank and the accused only wanted to scare people.
Speaking to Muscat Daily, a Royal Oman Police spokesperson said, 'The incident occurred on the occasion of a marriage ceremony. The accused has been arrested and referred to the judicial authorities for further action.'
Article 139 of the Omani Penal Code states, 'Any person carrying weapons outside the home without a licence shall be sentenced to an imprisonment of ten days to three years and a fine from RO10 up to RO300,' said the official.
Idris al Felati, a psychological researcher at the Ministry of Education, said, 'The practice of firing celebratory shots at various religious and social events is a concern for officials. This is an age-old practice prevalent across the Arab world. It has become an integral part of their history.'
Felati said the practice of owning weapons today means lack of self-confidence. 'I think it is lack of self-confidence in people that encourages them to own weapons. Some also do it to brag about their bravery and see it as a sign of manhood. But such acts will only land a person in jail. I hope that with proper cultural and legal awareness we can reduce such incidents.'
Khalid Tabook, a social researcher at the Ministry of Social Development too, agrees with Felati. He feels the publishing of the news will help discourage other members of the community.
'Shooting at social events is an Omani tradition. People shoot to express their joy. However, it is unacceptable as it puts the lives of others at risk.'
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