Saudi man arrested for blackmailing girl on social media

Abu Dhabi: A Saudi man, in his 20s, was arrested after he allegedly defamed and blackmailed a girl on social media in Tarif province, police said.

The suspect was moved to the Public Prosecution for further questioning and trial, police added.

Victims of defamation through social media, including video clips, Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter and Instagram can file a complaint with the police station located within the jurisdiction of the victim’s place of residence, according to a local lawyer.

Jail time

Offenders face imprisonment not exceeding one year or a fine of up to SR500,000 or both.

Some cybercrimes overlap with other crimes such as extortion, defamation, insult, and slander, and the courts examine them on the basis of various provisions of the criminal procedure law.