ABU DHABI // A man accused of backing the ISIL terrorist group has asked to be allowed to remain in a mental institution because he was suicidal.
A A B, 31, an Emirati, is accused of setting up several online accounts where he published ideas that created havoc, spread hate, harmed the unity of the state and affected the peacefulness of society.
The Federal Supreme Court heard he used these accounts to promote ISIL and persuade people to accept its message.
A A B is also accused of spraying ISIL’s logo on a wall in Suweihan area and writing “it will remain”, which he then photographed and posted on Twitter.
He also provided financial backing to ISIL, the court heard.
A A B previously denied all the charges.
His lawyer, Hamdan Al Zeyoodi, requested the court to provide a detailed medical report on his client’s situation.
“He was hospitalised in a psychological ward on October 7 and I would like the report on the case,” he said.
A A B was allowed to address the court, He said: “I have tried to commit suicide, and due to my circumstances and emotional state I would like to be hospitalised. I cannot remain in prison because of my health and the situation I am in.”
Judge Falah Al Hajeri accepted his requests, and referred him to a hospital where he will be examined and treated. It will then be decided if he will have to be hospitalised.
The case was adjourned to November 2, where the lawyer will present his defence.
aalkhoori@thenational.ae
