Dubai Court Sentences ‘Abu Sabah’ to 5 Years in Prison
The Dubai Criminal Court has sentenced Indian businessman Balvinder Sahni, widely known as “Abu Sabah”, to five years in prison followed by deportation, and imposed a fine of Dhs500,000. The court also ordered the confiscation of Dhs150 million worth of assets linked to the crime. Sahni was convicted alongside 32 others, including his son, in a major money laundering case involving an organised criminal gang.
Group Convicted in Complex Financial Crime
Out of the 33 individuals charged, 11 were sentenced in absentia to five years in prison and fined Dhs500,000 each. An additional 10 suspects received one-year sentences and fines of Dhs200,000 each. All convicted individuals are to be deported following the completion of their sentences.
Companies Fined and Assets Seized
The court also handed down Dhs5 million fines to three companies involved in the scheme. Along with financial penalties, the court ordered the seizure of all proceeds from the crime, including electronic devices, phones, and documents obtained during the investigation. Total confiscated assets were valued at approximately Dhs150 million.
Case Details and Investigation Timeline
The case began with a report submitted to Dubai Police. The Public Prosecution took over on December 18, 2024, with the first court session held on January 9, 2025. Investigations revealed that the defendants operated a well-organized laundering network using shell companies and dubious cross-border transactions.
High-Profile Lifestyle Under Scrutiny
Balvinder Sahni is known for his lavish lifestyle and international business ventures, with operations in the UAE, U.S., and India. He gained public attention in 2016 after purchasing a rare vehicle number plate bearing the number “5” for Dhs33 million at a public auction.
Legal Aftermath
The court’s ruling underscores the UAE’s zero-tolerance policy on financial crimes. All individuals and entities involved in the money laundering operation are facing severe legal consequences, including deportation and significant financial losses.
