Two Social Media Users Jailed for Violating Public Decency Laws in Bahrain

TDT | Manama

Email: ashen@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s Third Minor Criminal Court has sentenced two individuals to six months in prison and fined each BD 200 for misusing their public social media accounts by posting content deemed offensive to public morals and societal values.

The ruling also includes the confiscation of the mobile phones used in the incidents. One of the defendants was acquitted of an additional charge related to inciting immoral behavior.

According to the Head of the Cybercrime Prosecution, the two cases were unrelated but both involved the public sharing of inappropriate content on widely followed social media accounts. The content was said to contradict Bahrain's public decency standards and violate applicable laws.

The Public Prosecution received two separate reports from the Cybercrime Department at the Ministry of Interior, which had monitored accounts publishing or promoting material considered contrary to the country's ethical and legal standards.

Following investigations, the suspects were identified and arrested. During questioning, both admitted to the charges. They were held in custody and referred to court, where the verdict was delivered today.

The Head of the Cybercrime Prosecution emphasized that today's sentences serve as a deterrent not only to the individuals involved but also to others who may consider using public platforms to share inappropriate content. She also reminded the public that using social media comes with legal and ethical responsibilities, and that everyone must abide by the law and respect the values of Bahraini society.