UAE authorities have arrested 27 suspects in an alleged terror plot linked to extremist ideology. STATE SECURITY DEPARTMENT

The UAE State Security Department has announced the dismantling of an alleged terrorist organisation and the arrest of 27 suspects accused of plotting activities aimed at undermining national security. On Monday (April 20), authorities released mugshots of the suspects, all male, following investigations into what officials described as a coordinated effort to destabilise the country. According to the State Security Department, the group was involved in covert operations, including recruitment, mobilisation, and planning of sabotage activities within the UAE. Investigations found that members adopted extremist ideologies and held secret meetings both inside and outside the country. Authorities said these meetings were part of a broader plan coordinated with external entities to access sensitive locations and expand their network. Officials added that the group allegedly sought to influence Emirati youth by spreading misleading ideas, encouraging allegiance to foreign entities, and inciting opposition to the UAE’s policies. The suspects are also accused of collecting funds through unofficial channels and transferring them to entities abroad described as suspicious. Authorities said the charges against the suspects include establishing and managing a secret organisation; pledging allegiance to external parties, and undermining national unity and social stability. The State Security Department said it remains committed to addressing threats to public security and urged residents and citizens to report suspicious activities through official channels. Investigators said the group had links to the concept of Wilayat al-Faqih, or “Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist,” a political doctrine associated with governance in Iran. Authorities did not provide further operational details but said investigations are ongoing. Meanwhile, governments of Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Oman and Kuwait, as well as the Muslim Council of Elders have condemned the alleged plot, expressing support for the UAE’s actions. In separate statements, their ministries commended UAE authorities for what it described as their vigilance in dismantling the group and preventing its plans. They also reaffirmed their solidarity with the UAE, supporting measures to protect national security and combat terrorism and foreign interference. ICA/Expat Media
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