‘Report posts that mock Covid-19 rules’
dubai — A top Dubai cop has asked residents to report to authorities social media posts and videos that mock the UAE’s Covid-related laws and regulations.
Speaking to Khaleej Times, Colonel Saeed Al Hajri, head of cybercrime department at the Dubai Police, said the law enforcement authorities are adopting a zero-tolerance policy towards the misuse of social media.
Al Hajri said people can report such videos to the e-crime department or on the Dubai Police app. “You can call 901 as it is not an emergency. Your last resort is to call 999 and report the case. Police will immediately take action.”
Al Hajri had earlier warned that people who publish videos mocking authorities and encouraging people to break ‘Stay Home’ rules will be named and shamed in the media. “The numbers maybe a few. But their impact on the community is huge.”
The official said such videos negatively impact police’s efforts to implement laws. Al Hajri urged people to apply critical thinking before they share videos. “You have to think about whether it is right or is there anything wrong. What is the motive behind the post?”
Al Hajri also added that the
Dubai Police encourages people to use social media as a positive tool, for skill-building and home fitness. “But, those who try to create chaos and destroy the status quo and our plans to protect the community will not be tolerated.”
Al Hajri said the violators of movement restriction in Dubai will be given a one-time warning before they are fined. “Warnings will be issued once for each category of vio
lation. It is part of creating awareness among the community. We have full trust that they will follow rules and regulations.”
Those who don’t heed to the warnings will be fined. “If they repeat the violation after getting the first fine, the fine will be double. If that also doesn’t work, we will refer them to the public prosecution,” said the official.
UAE Attorney-General Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi had issued the updated Resolution No. 38 of 2020 on enforcement of penalties for violations following the Cabinet Resolution No. 17 of 2020 to contain the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19).
The resolution stipulates 15
fines starting from Dh1,000 for failing to wear medical masks indoors by those suffering from chronic diseases or showing cold and flu symptoms or failing to maintain social distancing.
A Dh50,000 fine will be imposed for non-compliance with home quarantine instructions and Dh5,000 fine for the executive in charge of managing a company or a facility that violates the sterilisation measures of public or private means of transportation.
Individuals violating the rules during the National Disinfection Programme will be fined Dh3000 and Dh1,000 fine for unnecessarily visiting health facilities.
Warnings will be issued once for each category of violation. It is part of creating awareness among the community. ” Colonel Saeed Al Hajri, head of cybercrime department, Dubai Police