ABU DHABI // A majority of residents have confidence in the courts and the prison system and believe prosecutors handle cases quickly and effectively.
Respondents to the first comprehensive, in-depth research into the perception of crime in the UAE found three quarters of respondents (75 per cent) are confident that the UAE courts are effective at prosecuting people accused of committing a crime.
Similarly, about three quarters (74 per cent) are confident that the UAE courts are effective at dealing with cases promptly and 72 per cent are confident that they give punishments which fit the crime.
Mohammed Salim, a 69-year-old Emirati living in Abu Dhabi, is proud of the police and the criminal justice system in this country.
“We have very good policing. They do a good service,” he said. “Hamdullah, the UAE is a safe place.”
His words were echoed by Theresa, 21, a Filipina.
“They do a very good job,” she said. “I never hear of any crime.”
The Abu Dhabi resident said she feels safe living in the UAE.
Three-quarters of respondents (75 per cent) to the survey also said they felt confident that the prisons in the UAE are effective at punishing offenders who have been convicted of crime. On the other hand two thirds (66 per cent) of respondents are confident that prisons are effective at rehabilitating offenders in comparison to a fifth (20 per cent) who disagree.
Sisters Maja El Taiyb, 18, and Jumana El Taiyb, 15, are Sudanese expatriates. They have lived in the UAE since they were infants and have always felt safe in the country and believe crime is not a common occurrence.
“It is very safe here,” said Maja. “They have good police and good people,” added Jumana.
Colleagues Mohd (KEEP THIS SPELLING) Sharique, 35, Rayamjulu Ada, 27, and Anilkumar T, 28, all hailed the UAE has a safe place to live and work.
They believe the work the police and the criminal justice system does helps keep the streets safe.
The three are friends, Indian expatriates and work at Etisalat. They all live in Abu Dhabi.
“I do feel safe,” said Mr Sharique. “There is nothing to be afraid of here.”
Mr Ada agreed. “It is a smart city,” he said. “ The area is safe.”
“It is good here. For us it is safe,” said Mr T.
newsdesk@thenational.ae
