How Dubai Police's victim support team rebuilds lives

BEHIND EVERY CASE NUMBER LIES AN EMOTIONAL STORY INVOLVING PEOPLE

- BY AGHADDIR ALI

When most people picture police work, they imagine flashing lights, high-speed chases, and criminal investigations.

But in Dubai, there's another equally vital side to the force, one rooted in empathy, care, and emotional support.

In an exclusive interview with Gulf News, Maj Gen Hareb Mohammad Al Shamsi, Deputy Chief of Criminal Investigation at Dubai Police, revealed how the city's police force is going beyond traditional law enforcement to help victims heal, recover, and rebuild their lives.

"Every case is more than just paperwork. There is a person behind it, sometimes a whole family who needs help," said Major General Al Shamsi.

Comprehensive support

Last year alone, Dubai Police handled over 22,295 victim support cases, ranging from theft and traffic accidents to emotional crises, domestic disputes, and fires. Some involved UAE nationals; others were expatriates and tourists. In some instances, even people abroad received support and updates from the Dubai Police.