Scores of child protection specialists in Abu Dhabi have been appointed as "judicial officers" — an enhanced role that gives them more power to investigate cases of child abuse.
States news agency Wam on Sunday reported that 127 specialists were sworn in as "judicial officers" at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.
The group went through a rigorous qualification programme before being appointed and it means they can start legal procedures in preventing child abuse, neglect, exploitation or exposure to violence.
They have also been trained to respond to the needs of children who have been victims of abuse or maltreatment.
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department made the decision to make the specialists judicial officers, Wam reported.
Ali Al Blooshi, Abu Dhabi's Attorney General, said the move will further protect the rights of children and maintain the cohesion and stability of the family.
