A 20-YEAR-OLD has been arrested after a video circulated on social media showing a woman clinging to a large box inside the open boot of a speeding car.
The Interior Ministry yesterday said legal action had been initiated against the driver “for endangering the life of a person”.
“The vehicle has been impounded and the driver referred to the Public Prosecution,” it added.
Thousands of residents took to social media to express their disbelief and anger over what many called a ‘merciless violation of human rights’.
Bahraini Fatima Ebrahim, 26, called for the toughest possible punishment for the driver describing the incident as ‘just beyond belief’.
“Such blatant disregard for life shouldn’t be taken lightly. This is just cruel. Human life isn’t a game,” she said.
Bahraini Layla Abdullah said it was terrifying to even think that a slight miscalculation could have resulted in the woman suffering serious injuries or being killed.
“The woman could be a domestic help, but that doesn’t mean that she should be treated as less than human, with no regard for her life whatsoever.”
Meanwhile, Rasha Ahmed said the driver ‘obviously took the matter as a joke and a show’.
“It is cruel to take advantage of domestic workers who are alone in foreign countries and who depend solely on their employers.
“This is a clear and shocking violation of human rights.
“As a Bahraini I am enraged because our country is known for tolerance and love and this behaviour does not represent us.
“The driver should be punished to the full extent of the law.”
Migrant Workers Protection Society (MWPS) chairwoman Noora Feleyfel thanked the government for its quick response.
“MWPS is deeply disturbed by the reckless and inhumane behaviour of the driver,” she told the GDN.
“To risk another human’s life in this way is just unacceptable.
“Unfortunately, having so little value for a domestic worker’s life is a reflection of what values are being learned at home and this is where we need to focus on as a society.”
She said instilling the right values in the younger generations was vital.
“It will ensure we grow into a society that is respectful to everyone regardless of their race, gender and social status.”
reem@gdn.com.bh
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