TWO men, who allegedly assaulted officers after an illegal happy hour went sour, will learn their fates later this month.
The Bangladeshi labourers, a 37-year-old from Al Naim and a 43-year-old from Manama, are standing trial at the High Criminal Court on multiple charges including assault and possession and sale of alcoholic substances.
According to court documents, one of the officers in question was called to the area in Eker on the night of May 29, following a complaint from an anonymous source of alcohol being illegally sold and consumed.
When the 36-year-old Bahraini officer went to the location, he saw about 30 people, whom he described as Asians, and honed in on the duo responsible for the illegal distribution of the alcoholic substance, which was not identified.
He and two other officers proceeded to identify themselves to the accused and then apprehend the duo for their alleged crimes.
Court documents stated that the defendants not only resisted arrest, but also retaliated by assaulting the officers with wooden boards, which led to injuries.
During the scuffle, one of the officers was reportedly hit in the left leg, while another suffered a broken left arm.
Reinforcements rushed to the scene following word of the assault, and quickly arrested the duo.
The officers then had their wounds treated, with the 36-year-old suffering minor injuries of ‘about four per cent,’ according to the medical report.
Lab tests later confirmed that the substances that were distributed were indeed alcoholic and were sold illegally.
The Public Prosecution launched an investigation which led to the identification of the expats who were then referred to the court for trial.
Appearing in court yesterday, their lawyer questioned the evidence, stating that it would have been difficult for the officers to identify the duo in what was a crowded area.
“This is an open area that is very popular among the Asian expat community in the country,” she said.
“It was crowded and chaotic, as there were around 30 to maybe even 40 people in the area.
“The defendants were suddenly hit on the head from behind, and in confusion they started swinging and defending themselves, which was a natural thing to do.
“As for the alleged sale of alcoholic substance, most of the people in area were drinking, meaning it could have been anyone.
“Additionally, the documents and reports do not mention any money or proceeds from the sale of alcoholic substances.
“So why in particular were the defendants the only ones who were arrested?”
The case has been adjourned to October 28, when the judges are expected to issue a verdict.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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