UAE: 2 jailed for 'showing off' Covid-positive result in viral video

Two UAE youths have been ordered jailed after one of them roamed around in a public area, 'showing off' his Covid-positive result. The other youth filmed the whole act and posted the video on social media, after which it went viral.

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Taking cognizance of the viral video, the Abu Dhabi Public Prosecution ordered that the youths be imprisoned, pending further investigation. They will stand trial for endangering public health and violating Covid-19 safety measures.

The prosecution said that it investigated the clip, identified the youths and ordered their arrest.

Under the law, they can be punished with a fine of Dh10,000 to Dh50,000 and/or imprisonment.

The authority stressed that it will deal with such reckless behaviour with zero tolerance. It called on residents to follow all Covid safety measures.

Residents infected with the virus or those in close contact with a Covid-positive case have to quarantine and follow all due measures.