Keeping Mistaken Money Transfer Can Backfire

The rule is clear, he said. The cash still belongs to its owner and must be returned once the error is known.

Mobile payment options offered by different apps have become one of Bahrain's most used payment tools, letting people move money in seconds by phone. But a wrong number, a wrong account, or a similar name can send cash to a stranger.

Lawyer Al Issa said the law draws a line between innocent receipt and unlawful taking.

Merely receiving money by mistake is not a crime. Keeping it after knowing it is not yours can be.

He said Article 396 of Bahrain's Penal Code covers anyone who takes, with intent to own, money that came into their hands by error or force majeure.

The penalty can reach two years in jail, a fine of up to BD200, or both, if the court finds the offence has been made out.

Lawyer Al Issa said the recipient need not have caused the mistake. It is enough that they know the money belongs to someone else and still refuse to return it.

An error that begins with an innocent transfer can then end as a criminal case.

The sender can also bring a civil claim to recover the sum and seek damages if they suffered loss because the money was held from them, he said.

Lawyer Al Issa urged anyone who sends money to the wrong account to keep proof of the transfer, contact the recipient or the bank, and go to the proper authorities if the money is not returned.

Those who receive money by mistake should leave it untouched and return it, or ask the bank to deal with it.