Arrested over hoax organ sale video

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A man has been remanded in custody after admitting he filmed and posted a video that falsely claimed he was selling one of his organs for money, the Cybercrime Prosecution said.

The clip showed the man, an African national, holding a signed cheque and taking cash, which suggested a deal was about to be completed.

The Cybercrime Directorate identified him, then arrested him and referred him to the Public Prosecution.

Evidence

Questioned by prosecutors and confronted with the evidence, he confessed to recording and publishing the footage.

He said it was staged for humour and to attract followers, and that no sale took place. Prosecutors ordered further police enquiries and asked the bank on which the cheque was drawn for details.

The cheque was valued at BD58.900. Witnesses were called, including the issuing company ’s employee and the beneficiary.

Labour dues

Investigations found the claims in the video were false; the cheque covered labour dues owed to a colleague.

The Cybercrime Prosecution Chief said the Public Prosecution will continue to act against misuse of social media platforms.

She urged responsible use, asked people to check what they share and to consider the legal and social consequences, and said legal steps will be taken to prevent disturbances to public order.