Drunken sailor charged with attempted murder in Dubai

Dubai: An intoxicated sailor admitted he attacked his workmate with a knife because he didn't answer his phone call but denied any intent to kill him.

Records said paramedics' swift intervention saved the life of the 23-year-old Pakistani sailor after the 20-year-old Emirati suspect stabbed him once in his belly.

"I did assault him with a knife...but no! I didn't have any intention to kill him or put an end to his life," argued the Emirati, A.S., defending himself before the Dubai Court of First Instance.

The Public Prosecution charged the suspect with attempting to kill the Pakistani, M.N., with a knife when he was under the influence of alcohol.

Presiding Judge Saeed Salem Bin Sarm questioned A.S. about the intent behind the attack. The suspect denied any intention to kill his workmate.

"The suspect punched me in the face without saying a word because he got irritated... we exchanged blows until other sailors intervened... I moved to another boat docked adjacent to the boat where the assault erupted," said the victim.