DUBAI — Two Asian nationals were sentenced to life imprisonment by the Dubai Criminal Court for their involvement in a drug trafficking operation. In addition to their lengthy sentences, the court also imposed a fine of Dhs500,000 on each defendant, and ordered the confiscation of the seized narcotics. Upon serving their sentences, the men will be deported from the UAE.
The case, which dates back to February 2024, began with reliable intelligence received by the General Department of Anti-Narcotics, indicating that the suspects were in possession of a significant quantity of hashish intended for distribution among drug users in exchange for money. The information led authorities to conduct a search and investigation, which confirmed the allegations.
A police officer involved in the operation stated that, after receiving confirmation of the suspects’ activities, a warrant was issued by the Public Prosecution. A team from the General Department of Anti-Narcotics then moved quickly to the Hor Al Anz area, where the suspects were observed and subsequently arrested.
Upon searching the first suspect, authorities found three wraps of a dark-colored substance weighing 62 grams in his pants pocket. A similar quantity was discovered on the second suspect. Both suspects admitted to having hidden additional wraps of the same substance in various locations nearby. In total, eight more wraps were recovered, and further searches revealed over 550 grams of various narcotic substances hidden in their residence.
Additionally, tools used for dividing and weighing the drugs before packaging for distribution were seized. The suspects admitted to promoting the drugs through social media platforms, with transactions handled via bank transfers.
In court, despite initially denying the charges, the suspects’ defense was dismissed. The court found sufficient evidence, including their confessions and forensic reports, to convict them of possessing and promoting narcotic and psychotropic substances in violation of the UAE’s strict anti-narcotics laws.
As part of their punishment, the court also prohibited the suspects from transferring or depositing money on behalf of others for two years after their release, unless they obtain permission from the Central Bank of the UAE in coordination with the Ministry of Interior.
