Bahrain Court Concludes Major Drug Trafficking Case with Varied Sentences

TDT | Manama

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The High Criminal Court of Bahrain has wrapped up a high-profile drug trafficking case involving a sophisticated network responsible for smuggling and distributing heroin, tramadol, and methamphetamine.

The case began on June 22, 2023, when a 68-year-old woman was detained at Bahrain International Airport after customs officials discovered 5.3 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in her luggage. Despite the evidence, the court acquitted the woman, citing insufficient proof to link her directly to the smuggling operation. The wheelchair-bound woman, who claimed she had purchased the bags abroad as regular luggage, maintained her innocence throughout the trial.

While the woman was acquitted, three co-conspirators received severe sentences. The alleged ringleader, who has been at large since 2023, was sentenced to life imprisonment in absentia, fined BD 5,000, and ordered deported following his sentence. Two other defendants received 10-year prison terms and fines of BD 3,000 each.

The case has highlighted the complexity of drug trafficking operations in the region and the innovative smuggling techniques employed by such networks.