A British tourist who allegedly filmed Iranian missiles flying over Dubai while on holiday is facing two years in prison.
The 60-year-old man from London is one of 21 people accused of breaking the United Arab Emirates' strict laws against filming or uploading social media posts of conflict, according to legal advocacy group Detained in Dubai.
He was arrested in Dubai on Monday. The man is said to have deleted the footage from his phone immediately when asked by authorities, and claimed to have had no knowledge of committing any offence.
The organisation, said: "Amongst those charged is a British man who says he deleted the video immediately when asked and meant no harm, but is still among those facing charges.
The UAE has strict laws against filming or sharing footage of major incidents ‘broadcasting, publishing, republishing or circulating rumours or provocative propaganda that could disturb public security.’
"Under UAE cybercrime laws, one post can lead to many arrests. Anyone who shares, reposts or comments on the same content can face the same charges. and be named on the same charge sheet.
"The charges are vague and broad but serious nonetheless. Those charged could face lengthy prison sentences.
"Residents could also be detained under national security laws, held indefinitely, denied access to their embassy and be subjected to human rights abuses. In times of tension, extreme caution is advised."
Prosecutors in the UAE had warned last week over the risks of sharing "rumours" about incidents in the UAE amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
A social media post from UAE Public Prosecution said: "Any person who shares or reposts content from unknown sources shall be subject to legal accountability in accordance with the applicable legislation, even if they are not the original creator of such content.
"Be aware and informed… Information is a responsibility, and spreading rumours is a crime."
Source: The Independent
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