Instagram Comment Leads to Airport Detention and Ajman Transfer in UAE

An incident at a UAE airport has highlighted the serious consequences of online comments, even seemingly minor ones. A resident returning from travel was detained and subsequently transferred to Ajman after a comment made on an Instagram post triggered a police report.

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She was shocked, her husband was shocked, and their children were confused. There was a report against her in Ajman and they had to transport her to the emirate.

The comment in question was made on a photo shared by another woman, where the detained individual suggested the handbag in the picture was a knockoff. This seemingly innocuous remark escalated into online bullying directed at the original poster, who then filed a report with the authorities. Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Mohammed bin Hazem Al Suwaidi of Ajman Police narrated the incident, emphasizing the shock and confusion of the detained woman's family.

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She stayed in our command for a day, and then she was transferred to Ajman.

This case underscores the strict laws in the UAE regarding cybercrimes and online conduct. The federal Law on Countering Rumors and Cybercrimes stipulates significant penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines, for such offenses. In response to the complexities and potential delays in such cases, Ajman Police have launched a 'Remote Bail' service. This initiative, developed under the Zero Bureaucracy Program, aims to expedite the bail process for misdemeanors electronically, demonstrating a commitment to both enforcing the law and improving efficiency in the justice system.

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This is a legal procedure. Then, if it's a case that allows for bail, she can be bailed out at the centre or referred to the public prosecutor who will make a decision.