Driver of grocery robbers claims ‘he knew nothing’

sharjah — A 43-year-old Arab man — who stood trial at the Sharjah Criminal Court accused of being involved in four cases of thefts targeting grocery stores and a travel agency — said he was completely innocent and knew nothing about the crimes. The man was charged for the thefts along with two others.

During the court hearing, the Arab man while pleading not guilty said he started transporting people in his vehicle after posting over six advertisements on social media sites about providing transport services. However, he could never imagine that the two accused — who were among dozens of his customers — would turn out to be robbers, the man pointed out.

He said he did not know the accused personally and didn’t have any rapport with them. He only took them in his vehicle from one place to another and collected the transportation fees, the man claimed.

A police official — who was a witness — said he was able to nab one of the defendants from his hideout in a hotel. The accused confessed to him and gave him details about the thefts as well as their locations. The witness added that on being interrogated, the suspects admitted to having executed thefts in a travel agency office as well.

The forensic examination and fingerprints taken from the sites matched with that of the defendants. The court adjourned the hearing to next month.