Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
Dubai, Mar 16: Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have arrested several individuals, including 17 Indian nationals, for allegedly spreading misleading and fabricated content on social media related to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
According to UAE officials, the arrests were made following intensive monitoring of digital platforms to curb misinformation and fabricated narratives linked to the regional tensions that escalated after the recent US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran.
In the latest action, authorities referred 25 individuals of different nationalities, including 17 Indians, for fast-track trial after investigations revealed they had circulated manipulated videos and misleading posts online.
UAE attorney-general Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said electronic monitoring and investigations showed that the suspects were involved in publishing real clips taken during recent incidents, fabricating videos using artificial intelligence, and spreading misleading narratives related to the conflict.
Officials said the accused were divided into three groups based on the nature of the offences.
The first group circulated genuine video clips showing missile interceptions and related developments in the UAE’s airspace, but added commentary and sound effects suggesting active attacks in order to create panic among the public.
The second group allegedly shared fabricated visual content, including AI-generated videos or footage from incidents outside the country, falsely claiming they occurred within the UAE. Some clips depicted explosions, missile strikes or fires at various locations, misleading viewers into believing they were real incidents inside the country.
The third group was accused of sharing content that glorified a hostile state and promoted its political and military leadership, which authorities said supported hostile propaganda and undermined national interests.
Authorities said some videos also attempted to exploit children’s emotions by falsely suggesting security threats or attacks on important facilities in the country.
UAE officials warned that spreading misinformation or fabricated content that could threaten public safety or national stability is a serious offence under the country’s laws.
Such acts are punishable by a minimum of one year in prison and a fine of at least AED 100,000.
The action comes amid heightened tensions across the Gulf region as the conflict involving Iran and US-Israeli forces continues to escalate.