DUBAI: The Dubai Court of Appeal has upheld the acquittal of four former Malayali employees in a financial misappropriation case filed against them by their previous employer, a Malayali businessman. The ruling brings major relief to the former workers of a firm located in Dubai International City that manufactures artificial teeth and supplies them to dental clinics.
The four Malayalis involved in the case were previously employed as salesman, sales supervisor, and sales manager. After resigning from their jobs two years ago, they had settled their financial dues and legally cancelled their visas before returning home. According to reports, the former employer filed a complaint against them only after they launched their own venture in the same sector.
Complaint Alleged Misappropriation and Breach of Trust
The criminal complaint filed at Al Rashidiya Police Station in Dubai alleged that between 2023 and 2025, the employees collected money from clients without remitting it to the company, causing severe financial losses through breach of trust. The case was primarily built on a report prepared by a private accounting expert.
Reports also indicated that one of the former employees had to spend four days in jail following the filing of the case.
No Evidence Provided to Support Allegations, Argues Defense
Advocate Shamsudheen Karunagappally, Senior Legal Consultant at Ayesha Al Dhaheri Advocates, represented the accused in court.
The defense argued that the case relied solely on an audit report prepared at the company’s behest and that no documentary evidence or proof was submitted to substantiate the financial fraud charges. The defense memorandum highlighted that the audit report was prepared without hearing the statements or side of the accused.
After a detailed review, the Court of First Instance had earlier acquitted all four individuals. Dismissing an appeal filed by the Public Prosecution against the initial verdict, the Dubai Court of Appeal upheld the acquittal, exonerating the former employees.
Civil Suit to Be Filed Seeking Compensation
Advocate Shamsudheen Karunagappally stated that a civil lawsuit will be filed against the former employer and the company seeking compensation for the defamation, mental agony, and financial losses suffered due to the case.
This incident highlights how employment relationships abroad and subsequent disputes over starting new business ventures can pose significant legal challenges for expatriates.
For more details: Navamalayalam.com