Abu Dhabi court jails arms trafficker for 10 years

Man who used social media for illegal trade also fined Dh1 million and ordered to pay costs of disposing of seized items

Arms trafficker faces 10 years in prison. Photo: Abu Dhabi Judicial Department

A man who used social media to sell weapons and ammunition has been jailed for 10 years by Abu Dhabi Criminal Court.

The court was told the man trafficked firearms and ammunition without a licence and offered them for sale by posting pictures of the items on social media.

The authorities quickly became aware of the matter and set up a sting operation.

The seller was contacted by an undercover agent to acquire weapons. They agreed on a price and to meet for delivery of the arms.

After the investigation, prosecutors issued a warrant for his arrest and to search his home.

Items were seized from the man's home, including an automatic rifle and matching ammunition for the weapon.

Abu Dhabi Criminal Court said the evidence against the accused was clear, which included the accused's own admission during the investigation conducted by prosecutors, his statements recorded in the seizure report and the forensic evidence report.

The man, whose nationality was not revealed, was fined Dh1 million and the items involved in the illegal trade were seized by authorities. He was also ordered to pay costs and fees resulting from the disposal of the seized items.