19 Indians Arrested in UAE Over Misleading War Videos

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have arrested 35 people, including 19 Indians, for allegedly posting misleading and fabricated videos on social media during heightened regional tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Officials said the arrests were made after strict monitoring of digital platforms to stop the spread of misinformation that could create panic and threaten public security.

Attorney-General Orders Arrests

On March 15, Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, Attorney-General of the UAE, ordered the arrest of 25 people of different nationalities and directed authorities to conduct a fast-tracked trial.

This group included 17 Indians among others. They were in addition to 10 people arrested earlier, which included two Indians. With these arrests, the total number of Indians detained in the case reached 19.

Authorities had already warned residents not to film attack locations, share missile interception footage, or circulate unverified information on social media during the ongoing regional tensions.

Three Categories of Violations

Investigations found that the accused were divided into three groups, each involved in different types of online violations.

1. Sharing Real Missile Footage

The first group of 10 people allegedly shared genuine video clips showing missiles passing through the country’s airspace or being intercepted. Some also filmed crowds watching these incidents and added commentary or sound effects suggesting active attacks.

Officials said this could create fear and panic among the public.

This group included:

• 5 Indians

• 1 Pakistani

• 1 Nepali

• 2 Filipinos

• 1 Egyptian

2. Posting AI-Generated or False Videos

The second group of 7 individuals shared fabricated visuals created using artificial intelligence. Some also reposted old videos from other countries while falsely claiming the incidents happened in the UAE.

These clips showed scenes of explosions and missile strikes and sometimes included national flags or dates to make the posts appear authentic.

This group included:

• 5 Indians

• 1 Nepali

• 1 Bangladeshi

3. Praising a ‘Hostile State’

The third group of 6 accused persons allegedly posted content praising a hostile country and its political and military leadership. Authorities said these posts supported propaganda narratives and portrayed military actions as achievements.

Among them were:

• 5 Indians

• 1 Pakistani

Additional Charges and Possible Penalties

Authorities also charged two more Indians in connection with similar offences.

According to the Attorney-General, spreading misinformation during sensitive security situations is considered a serious crime under UAE law.

Those found guilty could face:

• At least one year in prison, and

• A fine of no less than AED 100,000

Officials said such actions can deliberately mislead the public and threaten national security, stability, and public order.

The public prosecution has already begun questioning the suspects, and the first group of defendants has been ordered to remain in custody while investigations continue.