UAE youth cyber crime and drug offence figures more than halved

While the number of juveniles appearing in courts over charges of cyber crimes and drugs dropped by more than 50 per cent this year, there has been an increase in traffic offences and assaults — a top prosecutor has revealed.

Prosecutor Mohammed Al Dhanhani says family prosecution has helped to raise awareness. Silvia Razgova / The National

ABU DHABI // The number of youths charged with cyber crimes and drug offences has more than halved in the past year, authorities say.

But there were more being caught for driving without licences, fighting and sexual harassment.

There are no precise figures but prosecutors say the drop in online crimes and drug charges is caused by better knowledge among people aged under 18 about what constitutes a crime, partly due to a campaign by the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.

“We reached out to 3,000 students last year and made them aware of possible slips and breaches of the law they could commit in everyday life,” said Mohammed Al Dhanhani, the head of Baniyas public prosecution and former head of family prosecution in Abu Dhabi.

“We told them if you send a text message insulting your friend, you could be prosecuted under the cyber-crime law.”

Consequences of using or dealing drugs were also highlighted.

Family prosecution has continued to spread awareness among children and teenagers, with school visits, exhibitions, short films, media campaigns and live events.

“And we will continue through that path, especially since we are seeing productive results,” said Mr Al Dhanhani.

The number of teenagers caught committing traffic offences has increased, and fights involving youths in schools, parks and other public places were also on the rise.

“We see most juveniles committing traffic offences, such as driving recklessly or without a licence,” said Chief Justice Mustafa Abu El Naja, head of the First Appeals Court.

He said he had also noticed many cases of sexual harassment among young people.

“Drugs are very rare between juveniles and cyber crimes are also low,” Chief Justice Abu El Naja said.

“However, among adults such cases are increasing.”

Abdullah Ali, 16, an Emirati, said young people continued to make fun of each other on social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook, and published other people’s photos.

“Everyone does it, it’s called ‘trolling’,” Abdullah said.

“They want to be funny and create a jovial atmosphere.”

He said he did not know any teenagers who had been involved with drugs.

“Driving without a licence is a big one, because they all want to drive and drift. They are impatient to get their licence,” Abdullah said.

He attributed the decline in the number of prosecutions to young people not wanting to go to prison. “We are young but aware.”

Abdullah believes parental awareness is essential to cutting down juvenile crimes.

“They need to call and check on their children, ensure they are safe, give more advice,” Abdullah said