In a landmark ruling, the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeals sentenced three Uzbek nationals to death for their involvement in the murder of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, marking a significant moment for the United Arab Emirates' approach to violent crime and its implications for its growing Jewish population. A fourth individual received a life sentence in connection with the case, which has drawn attention to the safety of expatriate communities in the region.
U.A.E. Issues Death Sentences for Trio in Rabbi Kogan Murder Case
U.A.E. Issues Death Sentences for Trio in Rabbi Kogan Murder Case
Three individuals have been sentenced to death in the U.A.E. for the premeditated killing of an Israeli rabbi, raising security concerns for the local Jewish community.
On March 31, 2025, U.A.E. state news agency WAM reported that the court found the accused guilty of "premeditated murder with terrorist intention" following an incident that occurred last November. Rabbi Kogan, a 28-year-old Moldovan rabbi, was abducted and murdered, prompting widespread condemnation and fear within the U.A.E.'s Jewish community. The identities of the three sentenced individuals are Olimboy Tohirovich, Makhmudjon Abdurakhim, both 28, and 33-year-old Azizbek Kamilovich. Photos of the suspects, shown blindfolded and in restraints, were shared after their extradition from Turkey.
Details surrounding the crime were sparse, but WAM reported that evidence compiled against the defendants included confessions, forensic documents, and witness accounts. Although authorities have not revealed the motive behind Kogan’s killing, the case raises important questions regarding the protection of minority groups in the region. The fourth defendant, sentenced to life imprisonment, is expected to face deportation thereafter, although life sentences in the U.A.E. often allow for earlier release after 20 years.
Details surrounding the crime were sparse, but WAM reported that evidence compiled against the defendants included confessions, forensic documents, and witness accounts. Although authorities have not revealed the motive behind Kogan’s killing, the case raises important questions regarding the protection of minority groups in the region. The fourth defendant, sentenced to life imprisonment, is expected to face deportation thereafter, although life sentences in the U.A.E. often allow for earlier release after 20 years.
