Three survivors of a drone attack on a high-rise near Dubai Creek Harbour face arrest after sharing images of the destruction with family members. The strike occurred last Wednesday, when a drone collided with the building and sparked a massive blaze. The individuals captured photos of the charred scene to confirm their survival, only for police to confiscate their devices and take them into custody.
Call for Compassion Amid Trauma
Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, highlighted the detentions on X. She stated: “Three traumatised survivors of an Iran drone strike were arrested after privately sharing a photo with loved ones confirming they were alive following an explosion on their apartment floor. Instead of receiving victim support, they were locked up by Dubai police.” Stirling called on Emirati authorities to extend compassion to those who endured a near-death ordeal.
Broad Crackdown on Media Sharing
Authorities in the UAE enforce strict measures against filming or distributing footage of Iranian attacks. A 60-year-old British tourist ranks among those charged under cybercrime laws for allegedly recording incoming missiles, despite insisting he deleted the material. Targets face accusations of disseminating “provocative propaganda” or “false news” that might stir public unrest or endanger national security.
Severe Penalties for Offenders
Convictions carry up to two years in prison and fines from £4,000 to £40,600. Foreign nationals risk deportation following any sentence. The UAE Public Prosecution Office issued a stern advisory: “The Public Prosecution warns against publishing or circulating rumours and information from unknown sources through social media platforms or any other technological means, due to the consequences thereof, including the spread of confusion and harm to the security and stability of society.” It further noted: “Any person who shares or reposts content from unknown sources shall be subject to legal accountability…even if they are not the original creator of such content.”
Ongoing Attacks Strain the Region
Dubai, home to 250,000 British expatriates, endures a three-week barrage of Iranian drones and missiles. A drone struck a fuel tank at Dubai International Airport on Monday, halting all flights amid thick smoke. This marks the third assault on the key hub since hostilities intensified. Detained in Dubai reports similar enforcement in Qatar, where over 200 individuals face charges under comparable regulations.
