Public Prosecution Figures Point to Changing Crime Patterns

I followed the Public Prosecution’s release of its 2025 annual statistics with close interest. Beyond the numbers, the data offers a clear picture of how crime is evolving — and how the justice system continues to respond in order to protect society and uphold the rule of law.

In 2025, the Public Prosecution handled nearly 60,000 cases, up from around 58,000 cases in 2024. This modest increase is not unexpected. Population growth, an expanding labor market, and a diverse workforce all play a role. While the statistics do not distinguish between citizens and non-citizens, the Capital Governorate recorded roughly 17,000 cases, reflecting its position as the country’s main economic and employment center.

One figure that stands out is the nearly 10,000 cases handled by the Prosecution of Ministries and Public Entities. These cases often involve public funds or government bodies, making them especially significant. Their volume underscores the importance of strong oversight and highlights the Public Prosecution’s role in safeguarding public resources and reinforcing accountability across state institutions.

Cybercrime is another area showing clear growth. The Cybercrime Prosecution registered close to 10,000 cases, confirming that crime has increasingly moved online. Today, phones and digital platforms are no longer just tools of convenience; they can also become tools of crime. This shift places new demands on prosecutors, requiring technical expertise and modern investigative methods.

Financial crime and money laundering further illustrate this changing landscape. During the year, 40 cases were referred to the courts, including offenses related to tax evasion, money laundering, and corruption. More revealing than the number of cases, however, is the financial outcome. Confiscated funds exceeded BHD 7 million, fines topped BHD 1.5 million, and recovered amounts approached BHD 7 million. These figures reflect a firm and focused effort to protect the national economy and disrupt complex financial crimes.

Despite these challenges, Bahrain continues to enjoy a strong level of safety and stability. Violent crime remains limited, supported by social cohesion, public awareness, and effective judicial institutions. At the heart of this system is the Public Prosecution, working to maintain a careful balance between firmness and fairness as crime patterns continue to change.

In conclusion, I extend my sincere appreciation to Ali bin Fadl Al Buainain, the Attorney General, for the transparency reflected in these statistics. They provide valuable insight for policymakers, researchers, and the public, and help build confidence in the justice system.

May Bahrain continue to enjoy security and stability, and may the Public Prosecution remain a central pillar in protecting the nation and upholding the rule of law..

( Captain Mahmood Al Mahmood is the Editor-in-Chief of The Daily Tribune and the President of the Arab-African Unity Organisation for Relief, Human Rights and Counterterrorism)