In a significant move to combat tech-related crimes, the Bahrain Shura Council has approved amendments to strengthen theft laws regarding mobile phones and laptops. These devices, increasingly used to store sensitive personal and financial information, will soon receive enhanced legal protection under the proposed changes.
The amendments, part of Decree No. 7 of 2024, aim to close legal gaps that currently fail to adequately address theft involving electronic devices. The legislation, drafted by the government and presented by the Foreign Affairs, Defence, and National Security Committee, updates Bahrain’s Penal Code, initially established under Decree-Law No. 15 of 1976.
His Excellency Nawaf Al Maawda, Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs, and Waqf, emphasized the critical need to protect personal data. “Smartphones and laptops hold vital information such as banking details, private photos, and work files. The government is committed to defending these devices and the rights of their owners by introducing tougher penalties,” he said.
Dr. Bassam Al Binmohammed, the committee’s rapporteur, highlighted the necessity of these updates in today’s digital age. “Mobile phones and laptops are essential to daily life. Strengthening the Penal Code sends a clear message that these crimes will not be tolerated,” he noted.
Dr. Jehad Al Fadhel, the council’s second deputy chairperson, called for a public awareness campaign to inform citizens about the new laws. “Laws alone won’t prevent crimes if the public doesn’t understand the consequences,” she said, urging telecom companies to provide better security tools to support the government’s efforts.
Dr. Fatima Al Kooheji also advocated for harsher penalties, arguing that fines capped at BD500 minimize the seriousness of such crimes. “These devices contain highly sensitive data. The consequences of theft extend far beyond their market value,” she warned.
Concerns were raised by Dr. Ahmed Al Arayyed about the responsibility of telecom companies in the event of data breaches. Dr. Ali Al Rumaihi, chair of the drafting committee, emphasized Bahrain’s strong international reputation in crime reduction, citing a 97% non-recidivism rate.
The legislation, which has been approved in principle, will undergo a final vote in the council’s next session.
