(Seychelles News Agency) - A Seychellois national suspected of drug smuggling has been arrested in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, SNA has learnt.

The Seychelles ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the arrest, responding to an e-mail from the SNA.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will provide consular support through its embassy in Abu Dhabi,” said André Butler Payette, MFA’s press attaché in the e-mail.

Drug smuggling is considered a significant offence in the UAE .

According to the UAE laws a person can face the death penalty if found guilty of drug trafficking and possession of even the smallest amount of illegal drugs carry a minimum sentence of 4 years in jail.

Another Seychellois national was due to appear in court in the Gulf State of Qatar last Wednesday April 09 after being accused of stealing a boat propeller.