Dubai: An Asian man who published a video of him throwing money in the streets to gain followers on social media was arrested by Dubai Police, an official said.

Colonel Faisal Al Qassim, director of the Dubai Police security media department, said the video went viral on social media platforms showing an Asian man in his 30s throwing UAE dirhams in the streets to show off.

“The man was arrested after he was identified by the Cyber-Crime Department at Dubai Police. He admitted of throwing the money to get more likes and followers and to become a celebrity on social media,” Col Al Qasim said.

Dubai Police said the act was uncivilized and inappropriate.

Col Al Qasim urged social media users to follow the laws and traditions of the country and to know the consequences of such acts as per UAE cyber-crime law.

“People should know the law. Ignorance of the law it is not an excuse. Article 29 from the cyber-crime law states that people who publish news or rumours in purpose of mocking or damaging the country’s reputation shall be punished with jail and fine up to Dh1 million,” said Col Al Qasim.