Abu Dhabi Police announced that it will show no tolerance towards sorcerers and charlatans, stressing that it will firmly track and address them. This aims to protect society from the risks posed by this category that fools and blackmails people to make illegal gains. Moreover, it called on community members to cooperate by reporting all individuals who perform such practices that are contrary to the teachings and values of Islam.
Despite the low number of cases which accounted to four in the first quarter of the year, the police expressed its concern over the existence of undeclared victims; due to the reluctance of some people to report such incidents for different reasons. Moreover, some charlatans take advantage of people’s beliefs, convincing them of the legitimacy of their practices to make illegal gains from their victims.
On a similar note, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments warned the public against resorting to charlatans, sorcerers, and soothsayers, who harm individuals and families, and tear them apart. Psychologists and social workers indicated that witchcraft and charlatanism are a significant problem for the UAE society; noting that they emerged due to the diverse cultures and beliefs, which introduced unfamiliar phenomena into society.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments blamed individuals who resort to charlatans to solve their problems, adding that such behavior is contrary to the progress attained in this modern day and age, which provides all resources and scientific means to address problems. Moreover, it called on people to consult psychologists, doctors and social workers to find appropriate solutions to their problems, according to their respective competence.
Major General Mohammed bin Al Awadhi Al Menhali, Director General of Police Operations at Abu Dhabi Police indicated that fighting charlatanism is a main priority for Abu Dhabi Police to rid community members from this scourge. He added that ADP will spare no effort to prevent charlatans from performing these wrongful practices, gain money illegally and harm people.
Al Menhali noted that the awareness initiative launched by Abu Dhabi Police aims to raise awareness among UAE nationals and residents about the dangers of charlatans. It will be open and include broadcasting awareness messages through TV channels, radio stations, and print media. Moreover, large screens across Abu Dhabi will display awareness messages to educate community members on the risks of resorting to charlatans and acquaint them with their societal responsibilities in this regard.
He underscored the need for the various relevant institutions to promote community awareness, to urge the public to refrain from trusting these misleading methods, or rely on charlatans to resolve family disputes or incurable diseases. He stressed that witchcraft and charlatanism is a dangerous scourge that threatens the security and stability of society. He called on community members to report individuals who practice witchcraft and refrain from dealing with them or revealing their personal secrets to them, so as not to be exploited by them. Moreover, he reiterated the Abu Dhabi Police’s commitment to its community responsibility through proactively fighting crime.
Al Menhali went on to say that the initiative will contribute to uncover charlatans’ methods of operation, to serve as an example for others. He added: “UAE nationals and residents have to contribute to these efforts and not hesitate to report charlatans and their whereabouts, if they have reliable information. To this end, they can call the “Aman” service toll free number 8002626; send an e-mail on aman@adpolice.gov.ae; or send an S