In a recent development, the Dubai Police have apprehended a university student who was found in possession of a collection of “private photos” of minors.
The individual employed a widely-used online game to ensnare victims, promising them monetary compensation and in-game rewards in return for the private images.
The matter was brought to the attention of authorities when a child disclosed to his mother that an individual within the game’s chat room had proposed payment for private photographs. Prompted by this disclosure, the mother submitted a report through the Electronic Investigations Department’s eCrime platform, which ultimately led to the arrest of the suspect.
Upon examination, the police discovered approximately 200 photographs of children in the suspect’s possession, a revelation that deeply disturbed the family of the accused. It is believed that the individual intended to exploit these images for purposes of blackmail or harassment.
Legal implications and penalties
Colonel Saeed Al Hajri, the Director of the Cybercrime Department within the General Department of Criminal Investigations, underscored the gravity of possessing child pornography, stating that it is a criminal offense under both UAE and international law. He declared, “The law is unequivocal, and there is no excuse for such abhorrent conduct… Dubai Police will not condone such behavior.”
his arrest marks one of three similar incidents reported by the Dubai Police this year concerning the possession of child pornography materials. Al Hajri highlighted the interconnected nature of such crimes, suggesting that they are indicative of a broader behavioral issue, with individuals involved posing a potential threat to the welfare of children.
Specialized team and preventive measures
The Dubai Police have established a specialized team dedicated to addressing online crimes targeting children. This team comprises professionals adept at managing such offenses. Al Hajri highlighted that the Anti-Rumours and Cybercrime Law contains rigorous provisions aimed at discouraging such activities.
He further emphasized the significance of parental supervision and the creation of a supportive home environment to safeguard children from online predators. He underscored the importance of educating children about the risks associated with engaging with strangers online and the cultivation of a trusting relationship with parents as essential preventive measures.
International cooperation
The Dubai Police have become part of an international coalition, initiated by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), aimed at combating online crimes perpetrated against children. This coalition, which includes police agencies from 13 countries, employs the most advanced monitoring and follow-up programs and has developed a collaborative international database to enhance cooperation.
Legal framework
The UAE’s Decree-Law on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes is explicitly designed to address crimes affecting children. It stipulates that individuals who incite, seduce, or facilitate the dissemination of pornographic content involving children through information technology shall be subject to imprisonment for a minimum of two years and a fine between Dh250,000 and Dh1 million. Furthermore, those who knowingly possess child pornographic materials through electronic means are liable to imprisonment for a minimum of six months and a fine between Dh150,000 and Dh1 million.
The law also ensures that children who are victims of incitement and seduction are not held criminally responsible for their actions.
