MPs in Bahrain have launched an investigation into a disturbing resurgence of weird witchcraft-style practices following the discovery of satanic-like scripts buried in Barbar Cemetery.
The alarming incident has prompted Parliament’s foreign affairs, defence and national security committee to request senior officials from the Interior Ministry and the Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Ministry for talks next week.
The committee aims to understand the extent of the problem, identify those involved and develop strategies to combat witchcraft and its associated dangers with the support of the ministries.
The meeting will also focus on raising public awareness about the harmful effects of these practices and encouraging community reporting of suspicious activities.
The latest incident came to light after volunteers conducting a clean-up at the cemetery uncovered papers containing what appeared to be satanic scripts buried around a tree.
It gained further public attention after clergyman Sayed Maitham Al Mahafdah highlighted it during a weekly religious sermon aimed at young people.
He condemned the discovery, describing it as a ‘heinous violation of moral and religious values’. His remarks have resonated with the community, prompting a swift response from legislators and religious leaders.
Committee chairman Hassan Bukhammas expressed alarm, describing witchcraft as ‘more dangerous than selling drugs’.
He emphasised the severe impact such practices have on individuals and society. “It involves pleas to demons to cause harm,” he explained. “I thought this kind of thing was no longer an issue in the country but it appears it is still being practised by a few soulless individuals.
“The buried paperwork reportedly contained harmful incantations and pleas intended to summon demonic forces to cause harm to certain individuals.
“Such acts are considered deeply troubling due to their malicious intent and their potential to spread fear and division within the community.”
Clerics and community leaders have long warned against witchcraft, noting that it not only violates Islamic teachings but also undermines societal harmony.
The resurgence of such practices has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of laws prohibiting witchcraft and related activities as stated in a special chapter under the 1976 Penal Code.
Witchcraft and related activities are strictly prohibited under Bahraini law, with severe penalties for those found guilty.
Authorities have previously taken action against individuals involved in such practices, but the recent discovery highlights the need for continued vigilance and enforcement, community leaders say.
The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of current measures to curb witchcraft and the role of public awareness campaigns in addressing the issue.
Legislators and community leaders are expected to advocate for stronger deterrents and greater collaboration between government agencies, religious institutions and members of the public.
“The discovery has sparked widespread concern, with many calling for heightened vigilance against such acts,” said Mr Bukhammas. “We praise the volunteers for uncovering the scripts and bringing the issue to light.
“Their actions have been seen as a crucial step in protecting the sanctity of public spaces like cemeteries.”
MPs have also urged individuals to report any suspicious behaviour that may indicate the practice of witchcraft.
They emphasised the importance of collective action in safeguarding the community from harmful practices and preserving societal values.
“Any resurgence of witchcraft practices requires deep attention,” said Mr Bukhammas. “Witchcraft is more dangerous than drugs in my opinion and the punishment shouldn’t be 10 years behind bars, it should be far harsher,” he added.
“People have lost their sanity in the past because of the stress created by such evil activities. People are scared about being targeted.”
The incident has raised concerns about the continued practice of witchcraft in the kingdom, which many assumed had been condemned to the history books.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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