Bahrain’s Public Prosecution announced on Monday, October 26, 2026, that three Asian expatriates had been referred to criminal trial in connection with an alleged electronic fraud case involving mobile phones valued at approximately BD65,000. According to prosecutors, the case involved the unauthorized use of other people’s identity card information and the falsification of electronic records to obtain mobile devices from a telecommunications company.

The head of the Cybercrime Prosecution explained that the investigation began after a telecommunications provider reported suspicious transactions discovered during an internal review. The company identified electronic contracts for mobile phone purchases that had allegedly been completed using identity details belonging to individuals who had not authorized or even known about the transactions. The findings raised concerns about possible identity misuse and fraudulent access to company products.

Following the complaint, prosecutors ordered technical examinations of the electronic contracts and related records. Investigators discovered that fingerprints recorded on several contracts did not match those of the legitimate identity card holders. Witness statements were also collected from individuals whose personal information had been used, and some were able to identify individuals linked to the case.

Investigators additionally examined payment arrangements and the methods used to settle the value of the devices. The resulting information helped authorities establish the identities of the three expatriates and investigate their connection to the transactions. Prosecutors subsequently ordered their arrest and questioning, confronted them with the available evidence, and ordered their pretrial detention before referring the case to criminal court for further legal proceedings.

The Cybercrime Prosecution emphasized the importance of protecting personal identity information and avoiding unauthorized sharing of identity card details. Members of the public were encouraged to report any suspected misuse of their personal data without delay. Authorities also reiterated their commitment to investigating electronic fraud and safeguarding individuals, businesses and confidence in digital transactions. The three expatriates remain subject to the judicial process, and their referral to trial does not constitute a final determination of guilt.

Source: Bahrain Public Prosecution – Al Ayam Newspaper