Abu Dhabi: The Federal Appeals Court has adjourned a hearing concerning terror charges against 84 individuals associated with the “Justice and Dignity Committee” organization, aiming to provide additional time for the defense to present their pleas. This decision pertains to Case No. 87 of 2023, in which the accused are charged with establishing a covert terrorist organization within the UAE.
The charges leveled against them include the formation of a terrorist group, plotting attacks, fundraising, and concealing the sources of their funds. During a session attended by the families of the defendants and media representatives, defense attorneys contested the prosecution’s allegations and the evidence presented, including investigative and financial reports. They criticized the reliance on analytical conclusions that cast doubt on the evidence’s credibility and argued for their clients’ acquittal based on a purported lack of criminal intent and ignorance of the organization’s true intentions.
Furthermore, the defense raised questions about the court’s jurisdiction by referring to a previous case, No. 79 of 2012, suggesting it has implications for the current case. This stance, endorsed by all defendants, was met with opposition from the Public Prosecution. The prosecution differentiated the current case from previous instances based on specific criteria and cited Federal Supreme Court rulings to support their argument for continuing the trial.
The adjournment by the court enables the defendants to further challenge the prosecution’s evidence and strengthen their defense, preparing for a prolonged legal confrontation regarding the charges against the “Justice and Dignity Committee.” The outcome of the next hearing will crucially depend on the defense’s remaining arguments, setting a pivotal stage in the legal proceedings.
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