Three men have been caught trying to leave the country with up to Dh4 million worth of stolen gold up their bottoms.
The Asian men had stolen the gold from four villas over a few days, according to Dubai Police.
Investigations began when police received reports about gold going missing from homes when the homeowners were out of the country.
Major General Khalil Al Mansouri, assistant commander of CID, said: “Police carried out an in-depth investigation and managed to identify the three men who stole valuable belongings worth between Dh3 million and Dh4 million.”
Police informed customs officers about the men at UAE entry and exit points and the trio were arrested while trying to leave, he added.
“A police squad was set up immediately to follow the case and track down the culprits. Police found out that the three men were planning to leave the country so we raided their apartment and searched their belongings,” said Major General Al Mansouri, in addition to alerting customs.
Officers found a small quantity of melted gold and suspected that they were melting it down to hide it in their bodies.
“X-ray tests were carried on the trio and found the gold hidden in their rectum,” said Maj Gen Al Mansouri.
Police said the suspects confessed to their crime and that the case will now be sent to prosecutors for charges to be brought.
Maj Gen Al Mansouri advised all villa owners to install home security systems.