Nine could face death penalty in the UAE over kidnapping and indecent assault charges

Investigations suggest victim was lured to home of one of the accused over financial dispute

Protecting the UAE's security and stability is a top national priority, authorities have said. Photo: Abu Dhabi Police

Nine men have been arrested and referred to court by the UAE Public Prosecution over a kidnapping case authorities said posed a "threat to state security".

In an online report to the Public Prosecution, a man claimed he was held captive, indecently assaulted and filmed while his hands were bound.

Investigations suggested the victim was lured to the home of one of the accused over a financial dispute, state news agency Wam reported.

This led to the victim being assaulted, tied up and detained for a week, the investigation suggested. He was allegedly forced to sign over money after being filmed naked as part of a blackmail campaign, with threats that the video would be shared on social media.

"Safeguarding the nation’s security and stability is a top national priority that permits no tolerance," Dr Hamad Al Shamsi, UAE Attorney General, said in the report by Wam.

He emphasised the Public Prosecution’s determination to enforce the law impartially, protect lives and property, and ensure that perpetrators of crimes threatening national security or social peace are brought to justice.

If found guilty, the nine accused could be sentenced to death or serve life sentences in jail, because they are accused of activities that constitute a threat to state security, Wam added.