DUBAI // A man has denied spraying red pepper powder into the eyes of a compatriot before stealing Dh15,900 from his pocket, the Dubai Criminal Court heard today.
The victim, KK, 30, from Pakistan, said KB, 28, attacked him in the Al Sabkha area in Dubai as he was returning home after collecting money from selling electronic devices for his employer.
"I was waiting for my boss to give me a ride home when the defendant attacked me," KK, adding that he could not open his eyes afterwards.
"He inserted his hand into my left pocket and grabbed the money," KK said.
With his eyes closed and burning, KK started screaming and sought the help of passers-by. Those who came to his rescue managed to chase the accused and restrained him until police arrived.
A witness, MK, also from Pakistan, said he saw KB "stretching his hand into the man's pocket and taking the money".
MK chased the thief and saw him throw the money to the ground and attempt to escape.
"I saw a police patrol nearby and sought their help," MK said.
A verdict will be given on May 27.
