ABU DHABI // The Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah yesterday vehemently criticised local members of an organisation which he said aims to "destroy and offend" the country.
In a statement released on Wam, the state news agency, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qassimi pledged his allegiance to Sheikh Khalifa, the President, and condemned those trying to harm the nation.
"Today we have the right to cast blame upon this group and to reject their plans to harm their country, its leadership and their own people," he said.
"We, as nationals of this country, are united with one common goal - that of defending this country and preserving its achievements."
Sheikh Saud added: "Reform means building the country, not destroying it."
He went on: "Any ship needs a captain whose image should always be preserved as the basis of success.
"It is our duty to reiterate our allegiance to the President, Sheikh Khalifa . and to reaffirm our determination to stand by him as a leader."
Sheikh Saud was speaking in the wake of a series of arrests of members of what the Attorney General has described as "a foreign-linked group".
Amnesty International said on July 31 that about 35 men had been detained since July 16, bringing the total number of arrests since March to about 50.
The Attorney General spoke out last week about the arrests, warning against fake news reports and "unfair rumours" spread to influence the investigation.
Ali Salim Al Tenaji said initial investigations and confessions of those arrested "revealed plans which jeopardise the security of the state, as well as ties between the organisation's members and suspicious foreign parties and organisations".
Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, has also voiced his support for the arrests. He said it was "a matter of dealing with the situation, not a matter of punishment".
In an interview with a Sharjah television channel he addressed the mothers of those arrested, telling them "please let us fix the situation . the son made a mistake, you didn't deal with it, let us do it."
newsdesk@thenational.ae