More than 100 people found guilty of tampering with Covid-19 test results to enter Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Police have arrested 102 people found guilty of tampering with their Covid-19 test results.

The accused deliberately changed their medical results in an attempt to enter the capital through the border check points.

UAE residents are allowed to enter Abu Dhabi if they can provide proof that they are free of Covid-19.

The negative results could be shown to police at the border using the AlHosn tracing app or by presenting a text message from a recognised hospital.

All the offenders, who were of different nationalities, were detained by police and referred to the Public Prosecution.

Legal action has been taken against each individual.

Salem Al Zaabi, acting director of the Federal Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Prosecution, said those found breaking strict safety measures put in place to curb the spread of coronavirus will be punished.

"The move falls within the efforts made by the relevant state authorities to counter the Covid-19 pandemic, curb the virus' spread and ensure the compliance of all Emiratis and residents with the instructions taken by the relevant authorities," he said.

"The Public Prosecution calls upon the public to comply with the preventive and precautionary measures, including all the decisions taken by the relevant government authorities, in order to avoid legal liability."

He warned that those found tampering with test results would face strict action as it jeopardised the health and safety of the public in the UAE.

Earlier this week, Abu Dhabi announced it would set up additional rapid screening centres at the border to facilitate the large crowds trying to enter the emirate.

It also launched an online booking system so individuals could schedule an appointment for the Dh50 test.

The facility, set up along the border from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, tests drivers, on-the-spot, using a Diffractive Phase Interferometry, or DPI, test that gives results within five minutes.

Those who test negative can continue their journey but those who fail have to undergo further testing.