Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Public Prosecution has ordered the arrest of the person accused of breaching public morality and abusing social media by filming and publishing a video of a UAE-based footballer making obscene comments, it was announced today (Sunday).
The video went viral and authorities issued a warrant for the footballer’s arrest. The video reportedly shows the athlete using offensive language and gestures directed at an opposing team’s coach.
A.Q., 26, admitted to being the person in the video and claims it was filmed a while ago and is surprised at the popularity of the video online.
The prosecution recognised the violation as falling under the law of electronic crime and clearly confirms the designated criminal offence.
Caution needs to be taken when using the internet and residents need to pay attention when creating, producing and publishing content online, the public prosecutor said in a statement.
Prejudice and harm to the community and to public order will result in the necessary action against anyone who violates the law and the behaviour is considered an attack on the UAE’s moral and religious values especially since the footballer is a prominent figure and represents the country, the statement added.
The prosecution encouraged members of the public to refrain from publishing harmful content on the internet. Information which harms the social, religious and ethical values of the country can make their owner liable for legal prosecution.
