Man lands in UAE court for using 'stun gun' on nephew

Ras Al Khaimah  - The video went viral on social media.

An Arab youth, who stood trial on charges of scaring a young boy by using an electric shock device, denied the accusations levelled against him. He told the Ras Al Khaimah Misdemeanor Court of Appeal that he was only playing with his nephew (sister's son) and didn't use a stun gun.  
As per the indictment sheet, the RAK public prosecution charged the suspect with terrifying the boy and posting a video of the same that went viral on social media.
The RAK Misdemeanor Court of First Instance found the defendant guilty of exposing the victim to an intimidating and harsh act that has a significant long-standing impact. The youth was ordered to pay a fine of Dh5,000 based on the charges.
Challenging the judgment, the young man approached the RAK Misdemeanor Court of Appeal where he rubbished the charges and said that he didn't use a stun gun while playing with his nephew.
"It was only a smart application on my cell phone that sounded like an electric shock gadget."
He added that all family members were present when the reported incident took place.
"One of them even shot the short video and posted it on a private WhatsApp group of the family while another shared it on social media without I being aware of it."
The child's father told the court that he withdrew the case and affirmed the defendant's statement.
"I am pretty sure that the uncle was only kidding with my son whom he loves so much and can never put at risk."
The case dates back to November 2018, when the RAK Police arrested the young man for posting a video that apparently showed him rebuking and scaring a child using an electric shock device.
Major General Ali Abdullah bin Alwan Al Nuaimi, General Commander of RAK Police, said the criminal investigations department managed to track down the person who posted the video three days after it reportedly went viral online.
He contended that the UAE safeguards the rights and duties of everyone. "More attention is given in a case of child abuse, harassment, intimidation, or any threat against his/her safety."
"It is unacceptable to scare anyone this way whether such illegal practices are meant for raising or disciplining kids."
Parents and all members of the society need to better communicate with their children, listen o them, and never scare or threaten them, he pointed out.
"Physical punishment and improper psychological threats always have a negative impact on children's self-confidence, behaviour, and their future."
Maj Gen Nuaimi said the Ministry of Interior has established a special centre to protect children against any abuse or exploitation.
"The public is urged to report any violence or illegal acts against children on the ministry's toll free no. 116111, which privately and safely deals with such kinds of sensitive cases."  
- ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com
 

• Ras Al Khaimah