DNRD officer took bribes to clear files, prosecutors say

He is accused of taking Dh1,000 to clear up overstayed visas in Dubai.

DUBAI // A 24-year-old corporal working for the Dubai Naturalization and Residency Department denied seeking and accepting bribes in return for cancelling fines, a Dubai court heard this morning.

"I didn't do it, your honour," said MA, an Emirati. HM, an Egyptian defendant standing trial on related charges, did not appear in court today.

MA took Dh1,000 from HM in January in return for canceling Dh2,500 in fines from a Filipina woman's file for overstaying her visa, records show.

A Dubai Police officer, TA, testified that police were tipped off about a man at the DNRD taking bribes in return for adjusting files. When they investigated, they learnt about MA, whose job it is to cancel visas.

TA said HM told them about handing money to MA in the parking lot of a coffee shop opposite Dubai Police headquarters.

The next hearing was scheduled for June 6.