Animal Abuse May Lead to Jail, BD1,000 Fine in Bahrain

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Animal abuse in Bahrain may be punishable by up to one month in jail and a fine of up to BD1,000, as authorities and campaigners warn against the growing trend of turning animal suffering into online content for attention.

The warning follows a recent case in which the Public Prosecution arrested an individual for filming and publishing acts involving animal mistreatment on social media.

According to prosecutors, the suspect admitted to creating and sharing the content to gain more views and online popularity. He has been ordered to remain in custody for seven days pending investigation before being referred to criminal trial.

Legal penalties

Lawyer Zuhoor Al Sayed told The Daily Tribune that Bahrain’s animal welfare regulations include clear penalties for violations under the GCC Animal Welfare Law framework.

She explained that, without prejudice to harsher penalties under the Penal Code or other applicable laws, offenders may face imprisonment of up to one month and a fine of up to BD1,000, or either penalty.

She also noted that courts may order the confiscation or destruction of animals or materials involved in such violations, depending on the circumstances of each case.