Trapped by False Promises

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

The First High Criminal Court of Appeals has set April 27 to issue its verdict in the appeal of two defendants previously sentenced to five years in prison each, fined 2,000 dinars, ordered to cover repatriation costs, and to be deported after serving their sentences. The case involves the trafficking of two women in their twenties.

According to the Public Prosecution, a 51-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman recruited, transported, and harboured the victims with the intent of exploiting them in prostitution. The victims were allegedly deceived, detained, and coerced through threats and manipulation.

The case began when one victim, 23, responded to a Facebook advertisement offering a job in Bahrain as a restaurant worker. A second victim was also approached with a similar offer, and both travelled believing they were taking up legitimate employment.

However, upon arrival in Bahrain, they were taken to an apartment and later forced into prostitution, with clients brought to them. The victims said their earnings were taken by the defendants, with only small amounts given back under the pretext of visa and travel expenses.

Investigators from the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit confirmed that the victims were recruited through fake job offers and placed under strict control after arrival. The defendants allegedly arranged their travel, accommodation, and confinement as part of the operation.

During questioning, the first defendant admitted to issuing visas and communicating with the victims via Facebook, while also acknowledging involvement in recruiting women for exploitation. The second defendant admitted her awareness of the operation and her role in collecting money.

What began as a promise of work is now before the court, as the final verdict is expected on April 27.