Question:
I came to the UAE eight months ago and made my ID through an agent who has a good relationship with my brother. My brother also gave money to the agent without any evidence. There is only a receipt for the payment made into someone else’s account in Bangladesh. Six months have passed, and the agent is not returning the money in any way. Our calls are not being answered, and the agent has changed his address. We have tried to resolve this through family and village arbitration but have not succeeded. What legal steps can we take now?
Answer:
It is unfortunate that you are facing this situation, but there are steps you can take to pursue your rights legally in the UAE. Here are some options to consider:
- Document Everything:
- Keep all receipts, messages, and any communication you had with the agent. Documentation is critical for any legal proceedings.
- Make note of the dates, amounts, and the nature of the agreement with the agent.
- Contact the UAE Authorities:
- You should report the matter to the local police. Fraud cases are taken seriously in the UAE, and they can assist you in investigating the issue.
- Provide them with all your documentation, including the receipt of the payment and any correspondence with the agent.
- File a Complaint with the Economic Department:
- If the agent is a registered business, you can file a complaint with the relevant Economic Department in the emirate where you reside.
- They may have consumer protection laws that can assist you in recovering your funds.
- Consult a Lawyer:
- It’s advisable to seek legal advice from a lawyer who specializes in financial fraud or consumer protection in the UAE.
- A lawyer can help you understand your options and the legal processes available to recover your money.
- Reach Out to the Bangladeshi Embassy:
- Contact the Bangladeshi Embassy or Consulate in the UAE for assistance. They may offer resources or support for citizens facing issues abroad.
- They might be able to provide guidance on how to proceed legally within the UAE.
- Consider Legal Action:
- If you do not receive any response through the above channels, you may consider filing a civil lawsuit against the agent.
- Your lawyer can guide you on how to file this lawsuit and what evidence is required.
- Use Social Media:
- Sometimes, publicly sharing your experience on social media can prompt a response, especially if the agent is active on those platforms.
- However, use this option judiciously to avoid potential legal issues.