Disgruntled worker caused nearly Dh1 million of damage in shop arson attack, Dubai court hears

The Afghan salesman said he had not been paid in a year

A man was charged with causing Dh984,000 of damage in an arson attack on a shop in Dubai. The National

A disgruntled employee set fire to a textile shop after claiming his wages had not been paid for a year, Dubai Criminal Court heard.

The Afghan salesman broke into the premises in Naif at about 1.20am on December 27 of last year with the intention of stealing cash.

But finding himself empty-handed, he used a lighter he found during his search to set fabric inside the shop alight, prosecutors said.

The man is accused of causing close to Dh1 million worth of damage.

Dubai Police were alerted to the blaze and later arrested the defendant, 27.

During questioning, he said he was frustrated because he had not been paid for a year and needed money.

The shop owner said he identified the worker from CCTV footage from a neighbouring shop.

“I saw the defendant entering my shop, then the fire started,” the owner, 40, from Pakistan, said in evidence.

“He no longer works for me. He absconded and his residency was cancelled.”

The man was charged with arson and causing Dh984,000 worth of damage.

He did not appear in court on Sunday to enter a plea.

The case was adjourned until April 25.