Seven convicted in human trafficking ring exploiting women for prostitution

TDT | Manama

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Seven individuals have been convicted by the First High Criminal Court for their involvement in a human trafficking ring that exploited Asian women by forcing them into prostitution through intimidation and fabricated debts.

The 30-year-old ringleader and two accomplices were sentenced to five years in prison, fined BD 3,000 each, and ordered to cover the victims’ repatriation costs. Other members of the ring received sentences ranging from one to three years, with fines totaling BD 4,000. All but two of the convicted will be deported after serving their sentences, and the court ordered the seizure of assets linked to the case.

The ringleader was found guilty of luring women to Bahrain with false promises of legitimate employment, only to coerce them into prostitution under the pretense of repaying debts, often exceeding BD 1,500. The women were also charged for their basic needs, including food and accommodation, which further tightened the control over them.

The second and third defendants, aged 47 and 37, were responsible for managing the women and ensuring their compliance. Two men, aged 31 and 32, were tasked with transporting the women to clients and various locations, including private flats and rented apartments.

Drug use was also tied to the operation. The sixth and seventh defendants were found to possess and consume narcotics. The seventh defendant admitted to supplying drugs to others without charge and renting a flat where some of the victims were housed.