Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021 on the Issuance of the Crimes and Penalties Law is the law that ensures the protection of property and animals in the UAE. The importance of public welfare, environmental preservation, and ethical standards is highlighted by this law, which outlines penalties for offenses such as the destruction of property and the abuse of animals.
Penalties for Property Destruction-
According to Article 464, individuals who demolish or destroy property belonging to others, making it unfit for use, may face jail sentences of up to one year or fines up to AED 10,000. If the damages impact public facilities, people’s lives, or security, the penalty may include a jail sentence. Crimes committed by gangs of 3 or more people can result in imprisonment for up to five years.
Crimes related to the damage of trees, crops, agricultural machinery, or farm tools belonging to other individuals may result in similar penalties. If the crime is by an armed group or a group of persons, the sentence could be extended to five years as stated in Article 465. Additionally, Article 468 stipulates that any person who destroys, moves, or removes land survey markers or property separations shall be liable to imprisonment for up to one year or be fined up to AED 50,000. If such acts result in unlawful acquisition or misuse of land, it shall be punished with imprisonment.
Penalties for Animal Abuse-
Under Article 466, intentionally harming or killing animals for work, cattle, or fish is punishable by imprisonment or fine. The abandonment of animals in a way that is dangerous to human life is also punishable by law.
Further, under Article 471 of the penal code, unnecessary killing or serious harm to domestic or domestic animals not covered under Article 466 may result in up to one year in jail or fines up to AED 10,000. Overburdening, torturing, or neglecting to care for pets or domesticated animals may lead to fines up to AED 5,000.
In addition, Articles 469 to 473 provide that committing any of these offenses by night, with violence, or at times of struggle or calamity, is an aggravating circumstance and hence may result from more severe penalties provided under Article 469. Repeat offenders imprisoned for one year or more may face additional monitoring for up to two years, emphasizing the gravity of the offense.
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