Taking action against those who leave children in vehicles

Abu Dhabi Police has taken action against those who leave children in vehicles.

Dubai Police recently stated that 36 children have been rescued from locked vehicles since the beginning of this year.

Legal experts point out that the offense falls under 'negligence' under Article 35 of the Wadima Act. According to Article 56 of the same Act, the offense is punishable with imprisonment and/or a fine of up to Dh5,000, based on the "judge's assessment on a case-by-case basis".

In some cases, endangering the lives and safety of people can be punished with imprisonment and/or a fine of up to Dh10,000. Legal experts reiterated that leaving vehicles unattended is a crime under UAE law and is punishable by heavy fines and imprisonment.

Authorities took seriously an incident in which police rescued a child locked in a car while his mother went shopping.

Abu Dhabi Police Traffic and Patrols Directorate Director Captain Mohammed Hamad Al Issai recently said the practice puts children's lives at risk.  He also stressed that action will be taken against parents who leave their children in parked cars for negligence.