Man with Covid-19 'wandered around Abu Dhabi and friend posted footage online'

Authorities have detained both for endangering public health

If found guilty of breaking Covid-19 rules and intentionally endangering public health, the men could be jailed. Pawan Singh / The National

Authorities in Abu Dhabi have detained two men after footage appeared online of a man wandering around the city showing a positive Covid-19 test result.

One of the men being held is alleged to have been walking in a public place while revealing a positive coronavirus test result on his phone.

The other man is alleged have filmed him and published the footage on social media.

Abu Dhabi Judicial Department on Saturday said both had been detained pending further investigations by Public Prosecution on charges of endangering the health of others and breaching measures to limit the spread of Covid-19.

The Authorities said everyone must follow rules designed to safeguard public health, and anyone who did not would face legal action.

Article 348 of the UAE's Federal Penal Code states anyone who intentionally commits an act that endangers people's lives, health, security or freedoms faces jail, a fine – or both.

Authorities have taken strict action against people breaking Covid-19 rules.

Shops have been warned, tour operators fined and people penalised for failing to wear a mask.