K.T. Abdurabb
Arab News Staff
ABU DHABI: The trial of activists accused of plotting to oust the UAE government started here in the state security court yesterday. Ninety-four people went on trial amid tight security. The suspects were arrested between March and December last year.
The General Prosecution read out the charges against the accused, who are male and female doctors, academics, lawyers and other professionals. Court sources said that 10 accused have fled the country but they will be tried in absentia.
The court adjourned the hearing till March 11.
Yesterday, the authority had closed the road leading to the court to ensure security.
State News agency WAM reported that the group was plotting to overthrow the government. According to officials, the group had formed a secret network to stage coup and raised money through real estate and other deals.
Government sources told Arab News that the accused are linked to the Muslim Brotherhood and some other political parties. However, some relatives of the accused said that their family members had no links to the Brotherhood.
Trial of coup plotters begins in UAE
