By Staff Reporter
ABU DHABI — The Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, Attorney-General of the United Arab Emirates, has ordered the arrest of 10 individuals of different nationalities for allegedly publishing misleading and fabricated video clips on digital platforms during ongoing regional tensions.
According to a statement released through the Emirates News Agency on Saturday, the suspects have been referred for an expedited trial after authorities determined that the videos were intended to mislead the public and undermine national security.
Investigations found that the accused circulated footage showing real images of air defence systems intercepting attacks, as well as clips of projectiles on the ground and crowds observing incidents. Authorities say the individuals also distributed fabricated videos generated using artificial intelligence that falsely portrayed explosions, strikes on prominent landmarks and large fires across various parts of the country.
Prosecutors said some of the content exploited children’s emotions to falsely suggest that the country faced immediate security threats. Other clips allegedly claimed the destruction of military facilities in the UAE or misrepresented incidents that occurred in foreign countries as events happening within the Emirates.
Officials warned that sharing such material — whether authentic or manipulated — could compromise public safety, spread panic and provide hostile media outlets with misleading narratives that undermine trust in national institutions.
The Public Prosecution has begun interrogating the suspects and ordered that they remain in custody while investigations continue.
The Attorney-General said the alleged acts constitute criminal offences under UAE law. Those found guilty could face a minimum of one year in prison and fines of at least AED100,000 for spreading misinformation that threatens public security, creates fear among residents and disrupts social stability.
Authorities stressed that they will continue monitoring digital platforms and will take firm legal action against anyone using cyberspace to circulate false information or sensitive footage related to the country’s defence systems.
Source: Emirates News Agency
