A European woman has been ordered by a Dubai court to pay a total of AED 15, 000after being found guilty of stealing a gold necklace from a retail store. The Dubai Misdemeanour and Violations Court imposed a AED 5,000 fine and mandated an additional AED 10,000 in compensation for the stolen item.
The incident, which occurred last March, highlights the effectiveness of in-store security measures and the legal consequences of theft in the emirate.
The Theft Incident
According to the case files, the theft took place when a shop vendor was momentarily distracted. The woman took advantage of the opportunity to conceal a gold necklace in her handbag before promptly exiting the establishment.
The vendor noticed the item was missing shortly after the woman left. Upon reviewing the store’s surveillance footage, the act was clearly captured. The video showed the European woman taking the necklace and leaving the premises without paying. The store manager was immediately informed, and the incident was reported to the Dubai Police.
Investigation and Arrest
Authorities launched an investigation by gathering evidence from the scene, with the CCTV recording serving as the key piece of proof. Police were able to identify the vehicle the woman used, which led to her swift identification and subsequent arrest.
During questioning, the woman admitted to taking the necklace. She claimed, however, that the act was not intentional. She told investigators that she had been planning to purchase the item but received distressing news about her sister’s death at that moment. She stated that she left the store in a state of shock, forgetting she had the necklace with her.
Court Ruling
Despite her defense, the court found the woman guilty of theft. Her lawyer’s request for an acquittal based on a lack of criminal intent was rejected. The court determined that the material evidence, particularly the clear footage of her deliberately placing the necklace in her bag, was sufficient to prove her intent to steal at the time of the crime. Consequently, she was ordered to pay the fine and compensate the store for the value of the stolen gold necklace.