Fighting cross-border crime

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

His Excellency Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, reaffirmed the critical importance of joint efforts to tackle cross-border terrorism, organised crime, money-laundering, irregular migration, smuggling of narcotics and prohibited materials, as well as cyber and digital threats.

Speaking at the first Middle East International Border Management and Technology Conference, H.E. Shaikh Rashid emphasised the need for strengthened cooperation, information-sharing, and mutual trust among national, regional, and international institutions.

“The security challenges facing our borders today extend beyond land, sea, and air to the virtual environment, which has become a conduit for attempts to undermine our values, economic systems, and national security,” he said. “This reality underscores the need for updated legislation and enhanced collaboration to address evolving threats effectively.”

H.E. Shaikh Rashid highlighted the pivotal role of technology in modern border management, noting, “Artificial intelligence, big-data analytics, smart surveillance systems, and advanced cybersecurity solutions allow us to move from traditional monitoring to proactive and predictive security models.”

He added, “However, technology achieves its full potential only through qualified human resources capable of applying it responsibly and effectively.”

The Minister also praised Bahrain’s experience in developing advanced border systems that facilitate passenger and cargo movement while ensuring the highest levels of safety and security. “Our nation’s achievements in integrating modern technologies demonstrate the effectiveness of combining innovation with strong operational protocols,” he said.