Manama: The Head of the Terrorist Crimes Prosecution announced that the High Criminal Court has issued judgments in 22 cases involving acts supporting Iranian terrorist attacks against Bahrain. These acts included endorsing and glorifying the attacks, acquiring and disseminating prohibited data, photographing restricted areas, and broadcasting false news and rumors via social media platforms.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Court sentenced 24 defendants to prison terms ranging from 5 to 10 years, with fines of two thousand dinars imposed on some. One defendant received a one-year sentence and a two thousand dinar fine. Confiscation of seized items was also ordered. The Public Prosecution received reports from the Cybercrime Directorate about social media accounts endorsing the attacks, publishing vital data, and spreading false information aimed at harming Bahraini society.
The published materials included images, videos, and comments glorifying hostile acts and displaying prohibited information. Investigations identified those responsible, leading to the Public Prosecution's questioning of defendants, witness testimonies, and expert examinations of electronic devices. The findings confirmed the defendants' activities, resulting in their referral to the High Criminal Court where due legal processes were observed.
The Public Prosecution reiterated that freedom of opinion and expression is guaranteed by law, provided legal controls are observed. It emphasized that exploiting social media to harm national security or stability violates the law. The dissemination of prohibited data and false news is considered a direct threat to national security.
The Public Prosecution will continue to enforce laws against such acts, highlighting the legislative system's role in criminalizing them due to their potential to destabilize security. It urged citizens and residents to comply with legal provisions and use social media responsibly, affirming that national security and stability are paramount and that legal measures will be taken against violators.