Three Bangladeshi nationals have been sentenced to life imprisonment in the UAE, while 54 others face deportation after serving prison terms for their involvement in recent riots and protests, Khaleej Times reported. The UAE courts delivered these sentences following violent demonstrations by Bangladeshi expatriates against their government in Dhaka.
The protests, which took place on July 19, were sparked by ongoing unrest in Bangladesh over job reservations. Demonstrators took to the streets in the UAE, resulting in clashes and public disorder. On July 22, three individuals were handed life sentences for organizing and inciting these riots, aiming to pressure their government during the turmoil back home.
Additionally, 53 participants received ten-year prison terms, while one individual was sentenced to 11 years for illegal entry and involvement in the disturbances. These severe sentences underscore the UAE’s strict stance on maintaining public order and adherence to local laws.
In response to the incidents, Bangladeshi diplomatic missions in the UAE have issued a stern warning to their citizens. The Bangladesh Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai urged all expatriates to respect UAE laws and avoid prohibited activities, such as unauthorized assemblies, slogan shouting, and sharing videos or rumors on social media.
“All expatriate Bangladeshis living in the UAE are requested to respect the laws and regulations of the host country—the UAE,” stated the missions in a message to Khaleej Times. They emphasized that violations could lead to severe consequences, including visa cancellations, imprisonment, fines, and future entry bans.
The missions also highlighted the importance of not engaging in activities that could create unrest or confusion, urging community members to advise their peers against such actions.
The recent protests in Bangladesh, primarily led by students demanding changes in job reservations, have already resulted in over 100 deaths.