Title: Bahrain Cracks Down on Financial Crimes: Stricter Penalties Enforced

New Penalties for Labor Market Regulation Violations

Manama, Bahrain – In an effort to combat financial crimes related to labor market regulations, Bahraini law enforcement authorities have amended the penalty provisions under Article (36) of Labour Market Regulation Law No. (19) of 2006. These new penalties aim to act as a deterrent for offenders, implementing more severe penalties for repeated violations.

Affected Offenses and Penalties

Penalties for Individuals

1. For violating paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of Article (23), and Articles (28) and (30):

   • Minimum penalty: three months in prison and a fine of BD1,000
   • Maximum penalty: one year in prison and a fine of BD20,000, or either penalty
   • For repetition: six months in prison and a fine of BD20,000
   • For violating housemaid permit conditions: multiples of the number of workers involved

2. For foreign persons violating paragraph (a) of Article (23):

   • Fine not exceeding one hundred dinars
   • Expulsion from the kingdom with a minimum three-year ban for return
   • Temporary ban for a minimum of three years

Penalties for Employers and Recruitment Agencies

3. For violation of paragraph (b) of Article (34):
   • Fines ranging from BD500 to BD1,000
   • Penalties doubled for repeated offenses

Exceptions and Execution of Penalties

No Stays of Execution or Judgments No stays of execution or judgments below the minimum range determined by law for financial penalties are allowed due to any extenuating circumstances.

Additional Penalties

These amended penalties do not include any more severe punishments prescribed under the Penal Code or any other law. Offenders are urged to adhere to labor regulations to avoid potential consequences.