In a major sting operation, Dubai’s security officials arrested on June 4 Amir Faten Mekky, the leader of one of the most dangerous international crime rings involved in murder, drug trafficking and money laundering, reported state news agency Wam.

A Danish national, Mekky was wanted by Interpol for his association with one of the world’s most notorious international criminals Radwan Al Taghi, the head of the ‘Angels of Death’ gang, who was arrested in Dubai in December last year and handed over to Holland.

Mekky had eluded security forces across Europe and was at large until he fell into the Dubai police dragnet.

Intelligence gathered by Dubai State Security revealed that Mekky had entered the country on November 14, 2018 using alternative travel documents.

Mekky was arrested following the efforts of a joint task force that included the Dubai Public Prosecution and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The task force ensured the arrest was made in compliance with the UAE legal process and in accordance with international legal standards, said the Wam report.

Special forces from Dubai State Security raided Mekky’s place of residence early morning on June 4 and took him into custody.

Mekky is currently being investigated and preparations are underway to hand him over to the relevant authorities.

The high-profile arrest sends a clear message that Dubai will not tolerate international criminal activities even if the crimes have not been committed in the UAE, said senior officials.

It also emphasised the UAE’s commitment to fulfill its responsibilities towards combating transnational crime, they added.