Dubai court acquits ex-minister of fraud charges

ANTI-CORRUPTION: Dubai has launched an anti-corruption campaign. (Getty Images)

An appeal court in the Gulf Arab emirate of Dubai on Thursday acquitted a former minister of defrauding a Lebanese businesswoman, throwing out a two-year sentence passed by a lower court.

A ruling read out in court dismissed all charges against former minister Khalifa Bakhit Al Falasi and two managers at a technology company.

In April, they had been sentenced to two years in jail on charges of deceiving the businesswoman and taking over her late brother's stake in the firm.

The court also dismissed an appeal by the businesswoman against the minister's son, who had been earlier acquitted of criminal complicity, Samir Jaafar, one of the lawyers representing the defendants, told Reuters by telephone.

Dubai, one of the seven UAE and the Gulf's trade and tourism hub, has launched an anti-corruption campaign, arresting several businessmen and another minister as its once-booming economy is hit by the global financial downturn.

Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said last year nobody would be above the law. (Reuters)

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READERS' COMMENTS

faith in justice system of Dubai, UAE.
Posted by danny-m, dubai, uae on Saturday 30 May 2009 at 14:28 UAE time


I dont know about the case, but i am sure of one thing, and also i got experience of the same that Judiciary is really impartial and fair. and uses common sence also.

Judgement
Posted by Maroun on Saturday 30 May 2009 at 10:49 UAE time


I do not know Dr. Falasi personally but reading the article I would ask, where did the dead man's money go if he was a partner in the business???I myself have been into Dubai courts with similar case.Having trust in your partner and not signing proper documents could make you lose your investment, especially with someone who has a high dgree and knows how to manouver themselves right!!

Congratulation
Posted by Dude, Dubai, United Arab Emirates on Friday 29 May 2009 at 14:38 UAE time


Finally and congratulations

مبروك معالي الدكتور
Posted by hs, dubai, uae on Friday 29 May 2009 at 00:36 UAE time


congratulation Dr. , i was always asking allah to help you in this case , and we have to appreciate the justice system in uae.
may alah bless you with your familiy

hs.

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