HM King ratifies, issues Law 24/2019

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa ratified and issued Law 24/2019 amending some provisions of the Penal Code issued by Decree Law 15/1976 following its approval by the Shura Council and the Council of Representatives.

Article 277a of the Penal Code promulgated by Decree Law 15/1976, is replaced by the following text: A prison sentence of no more than 10 years and a fine of no less than BD500 and no more than BD1,000 shall be inflicted on any person who makes flammable or explosive materials with the intent of using it or distributing it to expose people’s lives or public or private funds to danger, or possessing materials used to make explosives for the same purpose.

Two new articles, 277 a and 277 b, are added to Decree-Law 15/1976.

Article 277 a: A prison sentence of no more than five years and a fine not exceeding BD500 shall be inflicted on any person who possesses flammable or explosive materials with the intent to expose people’s lives or public or private funds to danger.

Article 277 b: Whoever distributes or uses flammable or explosive materials for the same purpose shall be punished with a prison sentence of no more than eight years. The penalty shall be life or temporary prison of not less than 10 years if the use results in permanent disability. The penalty shall be a death sentence or life imprisonment if the use causes the death of a person.

The Prime Minister and Ministers within their capacity shall implement the regulations of this law that takes effect on the day following its publication in the Official Gazette.