Defendants at UAE terrorism trial refuse to hire lawyers

The 41 men are accused of setting up an organisation called Shabab Al Manara to overthrow the federal government and replace it with an ISIL-style 'caliphate'.

ABU DHABI // Some of the members of a gang facing trial over their attempt to set up an ISIL-style “caliphate” have been asked to find their legal representatives.

On Monday, the 41 men – who are Emiratis except for one Syrian and one Comoros Islands passport holder – appeared before the State Security Division of the Federal Supreme Court.

They are accused of launching an organisation called Shabab Al Manara to overthrow the government and establish an extremist state.

Three of the men are being tried in their absence, while another was bailed minutes before the hearing began because of a health emergency and left in an ambulance.

The gang is also said to have tried to recruit other Emiratis.

Four lawyers gave the names of their clients to the judge during the hearing.

Some defendants, however, refused to hire a lawyer, claiming they were able to defend themselves.

Judge Mohammed Al Jarrah Al Tenaiji said it was mandatory to have a lawyer representing them and the court could provide one if necessary.

Three men decided to opt for a court-appointed lawyer, while the others sought time to find their own lawyers.

Judge Al Tenaiji said he would begin the trial once all the defendants had legal representation. The case was adjourned to September 28.