DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — A high court in the United Arab Emirates has upheld a 10-year prison sentence of Emirati rights activist Ahmed Mansoor for criticizing the government in social media posts.

The Dubai-based Gulf News reported on Monday that Mansoor's sentencing, which also includes a $272,000 fine, was upheld by a branch of the Federal Supreme Court dealing with state security. His lawyer did not immediately respond to calls by The Associated Press.

Mansoor was convicted of seeking to damage the UAE's reputation and relationship with neighboring states by posting false reports and information.

He was the recipient of the prestigious Martin Ennals Award for Human Rights Defenders in 2015. In March 2017, Mansoor was arrested when security forces raided his home in the emirate of Ajman, confiscating computers and phones.