In Dubai, seven suspects are set to stand trial for allegedly stealing Dh13.7 million from a company office. Authorities have launched investigations into the high-value theft and the accused’s involvement.
Dubai: Seven individuals to face trial for stealing Dh13.7 million from a company office
A group of seven Ethiopian nationals is scheduled to stand trial after being implicated in the theft of Dh13 million from a company office in Dubai, following an investigation by the Dubai Public Prosecution.
Case records indicate that the suspects operated as a coordinated criminal network. Some had recently entered the UAE on visit visas with the apparent intent of committing commercial burglaries, while others, already residing in the country, provided logistical and operational assistance. Dubai Police confirmed that the theft came to light when the company’s management discovered that their office safe had been forcibly opened, with millions in cash missing. In addition, a second safe containing Dh734,000 was also looted.
CCTV footage revealed that five masked individuals entered the building during the early morning, used specialized tools to break open the iron safes, and then fled with the stolen money. A dedicated team from the General Department of Criminal Investigations was immediately deployed to investigate. By analyzing the surveillance footage, conducting targeted patrols, and tracking vehicles, authorities were able to identify the Hyundai used in the heist, which was registered to one of the suspects. This breakthrough ultimately exposed the entire criminal network.
Investigators found that the burglary had been meticulously planned. The gang selected the company as their target and monitored staff movements in advance. Each member had a specific role, allowing the group to execute the theft quickly and efficiently.
After the robbery, the suspects attempted to conceal and move the stolen funds through unofficial channels. Some even tried to smuggle parts of the cash out of the UAE. One individual was arrested at Dubai International Airport while attempting to leave the country with his share. Another confessed to receiving a bag containing roughly Dh2 million, part of which he distributed to his accomplices before being apprehended.
Authorities described the group as a highly organised criminal network, skilled in forced entry, safe-cracking, and covering their tracks. Police also believe the gang had planned further commercial heists prior to their arrest.
Several members are currently in custody, while others remain at large under active pursuit. The case has now been formally submitted to Dubai Public Prosecution, where the accused will face charges that include organised theft, criminal conspiracy, and illegal transfer of funds. The investigation underscores the authorities’ vigilance in tackling sophisticated criminal networks operating within Dubai.
