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UAE vlogger takes down video claiming that wearing cloth masks incurs Dh500 fine

Dubai - The vlogger, who is known by the name Prince Jack Abood (PJA), apologised after deleting the video.

An Emirati vlogger has taken down a video in which he had erroneously claimed that people wearing cloth masks will get fined Dh500.
The vlogger, who is known by the name Prince Jack Abood (PJA), has apologised after deleting the video.
An apology posted by the vlogger reads (post edited for clarity): "We had got fake information that some people were being fined Dh500 for wearing cloth masks. PJA took this up seriously as we care for people. Please accept our apologies for the post. I have already deleted it." The PJA page has more than 2,400 followers.
The video was posted on Monday and shared widely in many WhatsApp groups.
Some residents said they got confused after watching the video and switched to surgical masks available in pharmacies.
"I had stocked up on cloth masks and have been using them since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. So, the message in the video came as a surprise," said Halima, an Indian expat.
"I was actually alarmed and did not use my cloth mask after seeing your post but good to hear that was not true," posted Glenn Gatdula, one of PJA's followers.
"He has a team but cannot confirm fake news?" asked another follower Jose Baluyot on the vlogger's page.
According to the mandatory anti-Covid measures in the UAE, residents should use face masks and maintain social distancing in public places. Reusable cloth masks are allowed and many people prefer them as they are more environment-friendly.
The UAE authorities have time and again warned residents against spreading fake and unverified information, especially regarding the coronavirus.
Anyone spreading fake information and rumours on social media about coronavirus in the country will be punished according to the cybercrime law, the UAE Ministry of Interior had warned, while urging people to act responsibly. Those violating online laws face jail sentences ranging from three years up to life in prison or fines that can reach up to Dh3 million, the authorities added.
anjana@khaleejtimes.com