DUBAI // A man stabbed a labourer because he had insulted his sister, a court heard yesterday.
AB, 21, an Emirati, plunged his knife into the labourer’s arm outside Al Khail Mall in Al Quoz on November 16 last year, prosecutors told the Criminal Court.
“He asked me for money but I refused then he pulled out a knife from his pocket and stabbed me,” recalled the labourer AM, 32, from Bangladesh.
The Emirati ran away while a friend of the labourer took him to hospital.
Police arrested the Emirati later that evening. Officers said he confessed.
“He said he bought the knife from Al Khail mall and stabbed the victim because he had insulted his sister,” testified police officer AH, 38. He added that the Emirati claimed to have been assaulted by eight of the labourer’s friends.
However, in court the Emirati, who is unemployed, denied a charge of assault.
A verdict is expected on October 31.
salamir@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
