Indian businessman in UAE donates Rs 2.5 crore to release 900 prisoners for Ramzan
An Indian businessman and philanthropist donated 1 million dirhams (about Rs 2.5 crore) to ensure the release of 900 prisoners from jails in the Gulf country by early 2024. Their target is to release 3,000 prisoners this year.
Firoz Merchant, 66, owner of Pure Gold Jewellers, donated 1 million dirhams to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities. He is based in Dubai.
Firoz Merchant’s office said, this is a message of humility, humanity, forgiveness and kindness ahead of Ramzan.
“Prominent Dubai-based Indian businessman and Pure Gold philanthropist Firoz Merchant has donated approximately Rs 2.25 crore (AED 1 million) to ensure the release of 900 prisoners from jails in the Arab country,” a statement from his office said.
Merchant, who is known for his ‘The Forgotten Society’ initiative, has already facilitated the release of 900 prisoners before the start of 2024.
According to the Magulf news portal, this includes 495 prisoners from Ajman, 170 prisoners from Fujairah, 121 prisoners from Dubai, 69 prisoners from Umm Al Quwain and 28 prisoners from Ras Al Khaimah.
According to Magulf, an online news portal for the Telugu community living in the Gulf, Merchant also paid off their debts and provided them with airfare to return home, with the aim of reuniting the families and giving them a second chance at life. Had to give.
Their goal for 2024 is to help free more than 3,000 prisoners.
In collaboration with the Director Generals of Police in the UAE’s central prisons, Merchant’s initiative has helped more than 20,000 prisoners over the years, earning him praise from government officials and prisoners alike.
Merchant said, “I am grateful for the cooperation with the government. The Forgotten Society believes that humanity has no limits, and we work together to give these individuals a chance to reconnect with their families and communities.” We do.”
Colonel Mohammed Youssef Al-Matrooshi, a UAE official, praised Merchant’s dedication to prisoner rehabilitation.
“He has helped countless individuals, and his quiet generosity provides real hope to those struggling to pay their fines,” Al-Matroushi said.