The Ministry of Interior has warned members of the public not to circulate rumors or any information that was not issued by the official bodies concerned about the "emerging corona virus", calling for the necessity of investigating accuracy and following the preventive measures issued by the Ministry of Health and Community Protection and health authorities in the state.
She emphasized that she is stepping up its procedures to prosecute rumors and lies about corona virus cases inside the country, and bring them to justice, warning individuals from being subject to legal accountability if they participate in the promotion of these rumors.
During the past few days, several governmental, health and educational authorities have confronted the refutation and denial of a large number of rumors and fabricated news that were promoted regarding the discovery of cases of “Corona” virus infection within the country, with the aim of spreading panic and panic in members of society.
For its part, the Ministry of Health and Community Protection affirmed that it is taking all necessary measures for the investigation, examination and follow-up of contacts, within the framework of its precautionary measures, in cooperation with health authorities in the country, in accordance with the international standards of the World Health Organization.
The ministry called on citizens and residents not to circulate any rumors and false information, and to follow social media channels for the official authorities, and the approved media.
The Minister of Health and Community Protection, Abdul Rahman Al-Owais, stressed in a recent press conference that the state is taking strict measures in the border, air and maritime outlets, as those coming from countries where the virus has spread will be examined.
The UAE Penal Code stipulates that "anyone who uses any means of communication or information technology means, or any other means, to publish information or news or incite acts that violate public order, shall be punished with temporary imprisonment."
It also stipulates that anyone who intentionally broadcasts false or malicious news, data or rumors, or broadcasting propaganda, is punished, if that disturbs public security, causes terror among people, or harms the public interest.