ABU DHABI // A man who ate hashish in the Netherlands should be acquitted because that country's law does not penalise the act, the Abu Dhabi Criminal Court of First Instance heard yesterday.
The Emirati's lawyer, Labeeb Hammad, said his client had consumed the drug in the Netherlands, where it was an ingredient in a dessert.
Mr Hammad sought to present photographs of the dessert, a picture of the restaurant's menu, a copy of the accused's passport that showed his travel movements, and a certificate from the Dutch embassy confirming the consumption of hashish is not a crime in the Netherlands
Mr Hammad asked for his client to be cleared of all drug charges, as article 22 of the penal code says a national should be penalised for crimes committed outside the UAE according to the foreign country's penal code.
He said as Dutch law does not criminalise the use of hashish, the accused should be acquitted. The verdict is scheduled for October 11.
hdajani@thenational.ae
Dr Afridi's warning signs of digital addiction
Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.
Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.
Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.
Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.
Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.
What are the guidelines?
Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.
Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.
Aged 2-5 years: Limit to one-hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing whenever possible.
Aged 6-12 years: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interactions.
Teenagers: Encourage a balanced approach – screens should not replace sleep, exercise, or face-to-face socialisation.
Source: American Paediatric Association
Hotel Data Cloud profile
Date started: June 2016
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THE LIGHT
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