Abu Dhabi court adjourns case of 84 facing terror charges

WAM

The next hearing of a case involving 84 people charged with establishing and managing a terrorist organisation in the UAE, has been adjourned to May 2.

The State Security Chamber of the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal postponed the proceedings in order to finish hearing the defence pleas and the defendants’ response to the prosecution's arguments.

The 84 defendants are accused of setting up and managing a clandestine terrorist organisation known as the 'Justice and Dignity Committee'.

The charges against them also include planning terrorist acts, fundraising for the organisation and concealing the source and destination of those funds.

During Thursday's session, attended by the defendants' families and media representatives, the court heard over three hours of defence arguments, during which the lawyers for the accused said that the court lacked jurisdiction, citing a prior judgment in a previous case - Case No. 79 of 2012.

This formed a fundamental aspect of their defence strategy, which all defendants endorsed. They also challenged the validity of the charges presented by the prosecution and contested the evidence submitted.

In response, the prosecution reaffirmed their position that the current charges are distinct from those in the prior case, as they involve demonstrably criminal actions. Notably, the financing of a terrorist organisation was not encompassed in the previous trial.

 

More from Local

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Score

    7:00pm - 9:00pm

    Hosted by Chris McHardy, The Score is your comprehensive guide to the world of sport.

  • The Night Shift with Mark Lloyd

    9:00pm - 11:00pm

    Musicians and music, entertainers and entertainment, industry gossip and songs selected by you, get ready to bring your night time to life! Every evening from eight, Mark Lloyd brings you an energetic mix of local and international content and contests, featuring an array of celebrity interviews and entertaining anecdotes. Get involved in the show and pick your favourite jukebox hits, every night from 8pm - 11pm.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!