I can't remember, says Bahrain charity treasurer accused of embezzling BD47,000

TDT | Manama                                                     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

In a surprising twist, the treasurer of a local charity, accused of embezzling BD47,000, argued in a Bahrain court that he could not recall the incidents due to memory issues.

However, a psychiatric evaluation dismissed his claims, affirming his responsibility for the embezzlement. The High Criminal Court is set to deliver its verdict on this case on January 29.

The individual stands accused of embezzling tens of thousands of dinars over several years.

The charity said it first detected irregularities in its books in 2017, leading to an audit that uncovered unusually high expenses and unaccounted cash withdrawals exceeding BD1,000.

When confronted by the board of directors, the treasurer admitted to taking funds but attributed it to indebtedness.

Later, an accounting expert’s report revealed a total embezzlement of BD47,000. The charity said the accused failed to provide full bank statements, budgets, or financial reports.

Authorities were alerted, prompting an investigation. Documents presented during the inquiry indicate that the treasurer manipulated checks after signing them, keeping the extra funds for himself.

Serving as treasurer since 2006, he confessed to this method of embezzlement from 2017 to 2023.

While unable to specify exact amounts, he acknowledged wrongfully acquiring BD47,000 for personal use through forgery.

Although claiming to have returned BD22,000, he now confronts additional charges, including document tampering and misappropriation of public funds, spanning six years in his entrusted position.