Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a landmark ruling, the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal’s State Security Division has convicted members of the notorious “Bahloul Gang,” handing down severe sentences ranging from life imprisonment to hefty fines and property confiscations. The verdict, issued on March 14, marks a significant step in the UAE’s ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and maintain public security.
Sentences and Penalties
The court sentenced 18 defendants to life imprisonment, 46 defendants to 15 years in prison, and 16 others to five years in prison along with a fine of Dh1 million each. Additionally, the court ordered the confiscation of the gang’s money, properties, cars, and seized weapons. Some defendants were acquitted of the charges.
Gang’s Criminal Activities
The “Bahloul Gang” was formed with the purpose of engaging in illegal activities, accumulating illicit wealth, and distributing the proceeds among its members. The gang exerted control and influence in the areas they operated, using social media to promote their criminal activities. They used prohibited weapons to instill fear and intimidate victims, forcing them to pay extortion money. The gang also concealed and laundered the illicit proceeds from these crimes through money laundering offenses.
Attorney General Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi had previously ordered the referral of the gang members to trial for committing crimes that endangered state security, public order, and social stability. The court’s ruling underscores the UAE’s zero-tolerance approach to organized crime and its commitment to safeguarding the safety and stability of society.
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Crackdown on Illegal Financial Activities
In a related development, the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) has been actively pursuing actions against entities involved in illegal financial activities. Since the beginning of January this year, fines imposed on companies and investors violating regulations and laws amounted to approximately Dh650,000. Additionally, Dh500,000 was imposed on companies for failing to comply with provisions related to combating money laundering and terrorist financing, as well as promoting activities outside the scope of their licenses.
UAE’s Commitment to Security and Stability
The convictions of the “Bahloul Gang” members and the SCA’s actions against illegal financial activities highlight the UAE’s comprehensive approach to maintaining security and economic integrity. By targeting both organized crime and financial misconduct, the UAE continues to reinforce its reputation as a safe and stable environment for residents and businesses alike.
The ruling against the “Bahloul Gang” sends a strong message to criminal organizations operating in the UAE: illegal activities will not be tolerated, and those who engage in such behavior will face severe consequences. The UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens and residents.
