Man who killed Obaida is ‘a monster hiding behind a human face’

In a hearing at Dubai Criminal Court on Monday, judges heard from Chief Prosecutor Dr Ali Al Hosani as he described how the “hideous and horrible crime” had “shocked the nation”.

DUBAI // The Jordanian who kidnapped, sexually assaulted and strangled a Sharjah schoolboy “is a monster hiding behind a human face”, prosecutors said on Monday.

They are seeking the death penalty for the man, 48, who killed eight-year-old Jordanian Obaida Al Aqrabawi.

At Dubai Criminal Court, judges heard Chief Prosecutor Dr Ali Al Hosani describe a “hideous and horrible crime” that “shocked the nation”.

“This crime violated all the noble values of our community,” Dr Al Hosani said.

“It has taken an innocent soul from its loved ones and triggered fear among us that we now fear for our children from the likes of this monstrous, drunk, wicked person whose low behaviour had him lure a child, rape him and then kill him.

“Despite being a father himself, his heart did not soften to the cries and screams of the innocent child as he ended his life brutally.”

He said Obaida had fought for his life and left marks on his attacker’s body.

Dr Al Hosani said the defendant had planned his crime and lured Obaida with the promise of a scooter, although he did not have the money to buy one. He said photos of the child were found on his phone.

“Where is your humanity, what heart of stone you have, what dead feelings yours are that didn’t move to the crying and pain of a little child?” he asked.

“This man has lost his human side. Even animals have mercy. He is a monster hiding behind a human face.”

Dr Al Hosani said the boy’s spirit was “in the courtroom begging for justice”.

“We appeal to you, in order for the nation and Obaida’s spirit to rest in peace, give him justice so his soul could rest in peace in its grave.”

Obaida was last seen on the evening of May 20 outside his father’s garage in Sharjah’s industrial area, where the family also lived.

Two days later, the boy’s body was found on Academic City Road in Al Warqa, Dubai.

The defendant is charged with kidnapping a child, threats and physical abuse, rape and premeditated murder, drinking alcohol without a licence and driving under the influence of alcohol.

He admitted in court to rape and murder charges but denied kidnapping.

The next hearing is scheduled for next Monday to listen to defence lawyers.