Bahrainis visiting the UK have been urged to exercise heightened caution following a shocking mugging incident involving a mother in central London last week.
The call came from Parliament’s foreign affairs, defence and national security committee, which is closely co-ordinating with the Foreign Ministry and the Bahraini Embassy in London to follow up on the case.
Committee vice-chairman MP Abdulla Al Romaihi described the situation as ‘deeply concerning’ and said the incident highlighted growing fears among Bahrainis travelling to the UK for leisure, education, medical treatment and business.
“This is not the first incident, nor will it be the last – something substantial needs to be done,” said Mr Al Romaihi. “Bahrainis travel to the UK for many reasons – for study, health, and holidays – but this incident has made many of them feel unsafe. We are working with the Foreign Ministry and our embassy in London to ensure their protection.”
He revealed that a formal meeting request has been submitted to the Foreign Ministry to discuss the situation, alongside possible co-ordination with British authorities.
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The GDN’s report of the Bahraini being mugged in the UK
“We want to know what’s next – whether justice will be served in this woman’s case and what steps can be taken to protect other visitors from Bahrain,” he added.
The comments follow an ordeal suffered by 39-year-old Bahraini mother-of-three, Eftikhar Mearaj, whose dream trip to London turned into a nightmare when she was mugged in broad daylight by two men impersonating police officers in the Paddington area.
The duo, described as tall men wearing security-style uniforms, demanded to search her bag before stealing all her cash and warning her not to resist. The shaken telecom company supervisor, who had travelled to London to celebrate a job promotion, filed complaints with both the London Metropolitan Police and the Bahraini Embassy before cutting her trip short and flying to Türkiye out of fear.
Mr Al Romaihi said the committee would continue monitoring the criminal investigation closely and would seek assurances from the UK authorities through diplomatic channels.
“We have full confidence that the Bahrain Embassy is following up on the case but our concern extends to every Bahraini visiting the UK,” he said. “Security must not be taken for granted, and this incident is a reminder for all travellers to remain vigilant. We are seeking justice. ”
British Ambassador to Bahrain Alastair Long commented on a GDN social media post of the incident: “The crime rates for London are falling and lower than all major comparator US and European cities,” he said. “Unfortunately incidents of crime do still occur and I am very sorry for this and all victims. But data shows London is safer than other cities and safer than it has been in a generation.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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