Manama: His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has ratified and issued Law (14) of 2025, which amends Article (33) of Decree-Law (20) of 2002 concerning the regulation of fishing, exploitation, and protection of marine resources. This comes after the law's approval by the Shura Council and the Council of Representatives.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the newly ratified law imposes a range of penalties for various violations related to fishing and marine resource regulations. Specifically, the amended Article (33) outlines penalties that vary based on the severity of the violation. Violations of Article (18) are punishable by imprisonment for at least one year and fines ranging from BHD 1,000 to BHD 10,000. Violations of Article (23) face imprisonment of not less than six months and fines between BHD 30,000 and BHD 100,000.
Further, the amendment stipulates penalties for breaches of other articles. Violations of Article (21), paragraph (d), and Article (22) will incur imprisonment and fines between BHD 1,000 and BHD 5,000. Lesser offenses, as listed in Articles (3), (16), (17), (19), (20), and several others, will attract imprisonment and fines ranging from BHD 500 to BHD 3,000. The least severe violations, such as those of Articles (12), (13) paragraph (d), (14), among others, will result in imprisonment and fines between BHD 100 and BHD 2,000.
The law also includes provisions for increased penalties for repeat offenses. Fines will be doubled if violations are repeated within one year from the completion of the original sentence or the lapse of its statute of limitations.
The implementation of the law is entrusted to the Prime Minister and relevant ministers, with the provisions set to take effect the day following its publication in the Official Gazette.