Abu Dhabi: A five-member gang suspected of robbing a young Emirati woman in broad daylight after leaving a Khalidiya branch bank, has been caught, the Abu Dhabi Police announced today.
Initial investigations showed that the two main suspects ambushed 24 year-old F.A. from behind, and proceeded to blindfold her using a gotra and closed her mouth using their hands to stop her from crying out for help.
The pair then allegedly stole her mobile phone and handbag which contained cash, documents and credit cards.
The men then reportedly fled the scene and left the victim on the floor after she lost her balance during the struggle.
The incident reportedly took place on July 28.
Colonel Dr Rashid Mohammad Borshid, director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Abu Dhabi Police, said that the victim’s quick reaction in informing authorities about the incident helped capture the alleged offenders.
According to the official, 25-year-old T.B. and K.M., 21, were employed as labourers at a private firm and had three accomplices. They reportedly managed to rob the victim of Dh1,300 and frequently monitored and tracked women and the elderly in an attempt to steal envelopes and valuables from them, according to a statement from the Abu Dhabi Police.
The five men have all confessed to their involvement in the crimes, the statement added.
Recently the capital’s authorities launched an awareness campaign urging residents to pay close attention to their valuables, especially when leaving banks and ATMs as Eid Al Fitr approaches and more individuals make cash withdrawals.
The public has also been advised to report anyone suspected of lurking around banks as well as criminal activity immediately after its occurrence to the nearest police station or by dialling 999.
