Dubai car park cash returned within hours

Dubai Police have honoured Mohammed Ali Sherakal Mohi after he handed in Dh100,000 found in a car park, allowing officers to return the money to its owner within three hours.

The cash, equivalent to about $27,229, was part of a Dh200,000 withdrawal made by a private company owner working in the shipping sector. The owner had placed the money in a paper envelope after leaving a bank, but a bundle containing half the amount fell out as he hurried back to his car. He drove away without realising that Dh100,000 had been left behind.

Mohi came across the bundle in the parking area and took a photograph of the money and the exact location where it was found before taking it to Al Raffa Police Station. His decision to document the spot helped officers trace the circumstances of the loss and identify the owner quickly.

Al Raffa Police Station later held a recognition ceremony for Mohi, with Colonel Ahmed Obaid bin Hudaiba, Director of the station, joined by his deputy, Colonel Saleh Hassan Al Marzouqi, and Captain Ali Haji Al Balushi, Head of the Customer Happiness Section. The officers praised Mohi’s conduct as an example of civic responsibility and public trust.

Colonel bin Hudaiba said the gesture reflected the values of honesty and security that Dubai Police seek to promote across the community. He commended Mohi for taking the money directly to the police rather than attempting to locate the owner on his own or leaving it at the site.

The owner, who was unaware that the bundle had fallen from the envelope, was contacted after police completed their checks. He arrived at the station to collect the cash and expressed gratitude to both Dubai Police and Mohi for ensuring the money was returned intact.

The episode has drawn attention because of the large amount involved and the speed with which the matter was resolved. Dh100,000 is a substantial sum for any resident or business owner, and the owner’s loss could have led to significant financial strain had the money not been handed over promptly.

Dubai Police regularly highlight such cases as part of a wider effort to encourage members of the public to report found property through official channels. Police stations across the emirate treat lost cash, valuables and personal belongings as traceable property, especially when finders are able to provide details such as location, time and supporting photographs.

Mohi’s action also underlines the importance of careful handling of cash withdrawals, particularly for business owners dealing with large sums. Banks and police authorities routinely advise customers to secure envelopes, bags and documents before leaving a branch or car park, as a brief lapse can lead to serious loss.

The incident adds to a series of public recognition gestures by Dubai Police for residents and visitors who return valuable property. Such ceremonies are intended to reinforce confidence in the reporting system and encourage people to approach police stations when they find money or belongings in public places.

Lost-property cases in Dubai often depend on quick action from both the finder and police. A clear record of where an item was found can help investigators review the situation, match reports and identify rightful owners. In this case, Mohi’s photograph of the bundle and the location gave officers an immediate starting point.

The handling of the case also reflects Dubai’s broader focus on public safety and community policing. Police officials have repeatedly sought to make stations accessible to residents, workers and visitors, while using positive examples to encourage lawful behaviour.