Prison Terms and Fines for Misuse of Government Wage Support

The Labour Fund “Tamkeen,” in coordination with the Public Prosecution, has successfully uncovered cases of fraudulent use of government support funds. The First High Criminal Court has issued prison sentences ranging from 5 to 10 years, along with fines between BD 5,000 and BD 50,000, against two individuals in separate cases. Other offenders received six-month prison terms and fines between BD 1,000 and BD 2,000 for falsifying electronic records, submitting inaccurate data through Tamkeen’s system and the Social Insurance Organization, and forging official documents.

The Public Prosecution received complaints from Tamkeen and the Social Insurance Organization regarding the actions of the accused. Investigations revealed that the defendants submitted falsified documents and incorrect information through the electronic systems of both entities to receive unwarranted employee wage support and one-time compensation payments, totaling over BD 88,000.

Following thorough investigations by the Anti-Corruption Crimes Department of the General Directorate for Combating Corruption, Economic, and Electronic Security, and based on conclusive evidence, the Public Prosecution referred the suspects for trial. The High Criminal Court reviewed the cases and convicted the defendants, imposing penalties consistent with the severity of the offenses.

Tamkeen manages violations according to their nature. Administrative violations, such as breaching support requirements or internal policies, are dealt with under the fund’s regulatory guidelines, which may include recovering funds, temporary suspension from support, or both. Violations with criminal implications, such as illegal employment or wage manipulation, are referred to the relevant authorities for legal action, while Tamkeen retains the right to impose administrative penalties.

Tamkeen emphasized its commitment to strengthening oversight mechanisms to safeguard public funds, monitor violations, and prevent support from being misdirected. The fund also praised the high level of cooperation with authorities, particularly in reporting suspected violations. All cases with criminal elements—such as ghost employment, wage manipulation, and document forgery—are referred to the competent authorities for legal action.

The fund reiterated its call for all individuals, whether beneficiaries or not, to report any suspected violations or abuses through the designated channels, including the dedicated reporting page on its website.