Manama: A human trafficking gang has been arrested by the Ministry of Interior in Bahrain. The group was accused of facilitating illegal residency for workers in exchange for money, with amounts ranging from 500 to 1,200 Kuwaiti dinars per transaction.
The Residence Affairs Investigations Department, as part of its ongoing security operations to combat human trafficking, arrested a citizen, a Chinese national, and two Egyptian nationals after thorough investigations revealed their role in recruiting workers under the sponsorship of citizens. These workers were then illegally registered under the sponsorship of 20 companies, with more than 232 workers affected.
The Ministry has assured that legal action is underway against the individuals, and they will be referred to the Public Prosecution for further processing. The Ministry of Interior emphasized its commitment to combat human trafficking and ensure strict enforcement of the new residency law, which includes harsh penalties. Those involved in such illegal activities can face 3 to 5 years of imprisonment and fines between 5,000 and 10,000 Kuwaiti dinars, with penalties increasing if the offenders are public employees.
Bahrain’s authorities have reiterated their determination to continue cracking down on illegal residency practices and exploitation in the country.
