Dubai court acquits OFW in child molestation case

MANILA, Philippines - The Dubai First Instance Court on May 28 cleared a Filipino national of child molestation charges after finding her innocent, the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai said.

Mariam Kusain Abdullah was accused in September 2012 of molesting her employers' three children aged 1, 6 and 7 who were under her care.

"Her case was the subject of numerous news reports both in the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates and caused a stir when it was reported that capital punishment was being sought," the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

The state agency said the Consulate General’s Assistance to Nationals Section constantly monitored the case since its filing and engaged the services of Dar Al Bayan Advocates and Legal Consultants to represent Kusain.

Kusain's agency, Forsan Gulf Labor Supply, also supported her in the duration of the case.

"The Consulate General and the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) Dubai will extend all appropriate assistance to Ms. Kusain until her repatriation," DFA said.