Due to the harsh laws in the Gulf country United Arab Emirates (UAE), a large number of people are in jail. Many are not able to afford the expenses for their release and remain in jail for years.
Now an Indian businessman has come forward for the release of these prisoners. Indian businessman and philanthropist Firoz Merchant donated 1 million dirhams (about Rs 2.5 crore) to ensure the release of 900 prisoners from UAE jails by the beginning of 2024. Their target is to release 3,000 prisoners this year.
According to reports, Firoz Merchant, 66, owner of Pure Gold Jewellers, has donated 1 million dirhams to the UAE authorities. He himself lives in Dubai. Firoz Merchant’s office said that this is a message to show humility, humanity, forgiveness and kindness before Ramzan.
“Prominent Dubai-based Indian businessman and philanthropist Firoz Merchant of Pure Gold has donated approximately Rs 2.25 crore (AED 1 million) to ensure the release of 900 prisoners from jails in the Arab country,” a statement from his office said. Firoz Merchant is known for his ‘The Forgotten Society’ initiative. They have released 900 prisoners since the beginning of 2024.
This includes 495 prisoners from Ajman, 170 prisoners from Fujairah, 121 prisoners from Dubai, 69 prisoners from Umm Al Quwain and 28 prisoners from Ras Al Khaimah. According to Magalf, an online Telugu news portal, Firoz Merchant also paid off the debts of those prisoners and gave them air fare to return home. Their goal is to reunite families and give them a second chance at life. Their goal for 2024 is to help free more than 3,000 prisoners.
In collaboration with the Director Generals of Police in the UAE’s central prisons, Firoz Merchant’s initiative has helped more than 20,000 prisoners over the years. Merchant said, “I am grateful for the cooperation with the government. The Forgotten Society believes that humanity has no limits, and we are working together to give these individuals the opportunity to be reunited with their families and communities.” We do.”
