An online prank has landed three men in jail after they were arrested in Dubai for sharing a video in which they pretended to smoke cannabis.
The men, believed to be from a Gulf country, posted a video of themselves saying “smoke hashish in Dubai” and smoking what appeared to be a joint at Jumeirah Beach Residences to Snapchat.
Within hours, the men were arrested, police said.
“Once the video circulated on social media channels, our teams arrested the group – from an Arab country – and they have been referred to competent authorities for further legal action against them,” said Col Khalid bin Moyazeh, deputy director of the anti-narcotics department.
“Social media platforms are not meant to be used for bragging about lewd behaviours that offend the country’s social values and subsequently cause damage to society,” he said.
Col bin Moyazeh said police monitor social media for drug-related content and frequently shut down sites or accounts that sell or promote illegal substances.
“Family is the first line of defence in the battle against drugs, therefore parents should educate their children about the dangers of drugs and the importance of being careful when choosing friends,” he said.
He called on the public to avoid sharing or posting content that promoted drugs in any way.
“Dubai Police has zero tolerance towards those who attempt to manipulate laws, whether by dealing, promoting or trading in drugs, and also for those who make video clips that contribute to the spread of destructive ideas that are harmful to society,” he said.
The UAE’s cyber crime law punishes anyone who publishes information online or using information technology with the intention of harming the reputation or status of the country with a prison term and fines of up to Dh1 million.
