Forty-one individuals have been arrested over alleged links to terrorism-related activities, the Interior Ministry announced yesterday.
The ministry said security services uncovered an organisation purportedly linked to Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the ideology of Wilayat Al Faqih, following extensive investigations and intelligence operations.
The arrests were based on evidence obtained through previous Public Prosecution inquiries into cases involving communication with external parties and support for what was described as ‘blatant Iranian aggression’.
Investigations indicated that those arrested were in direct contact with the IRGC and had collected funds intended to be transferred to Iran to support the group and finance its alleged terrorist activities, the ministry added.
Legal action is now under way against those detained, while authorities continue search and investigation efforts to identify others suspected of involvement in the network or in activities in violation of the law.
Saudi Arabia led regional countries in expressing support for the measures undertaken by Bahrain in response to activities targeting its national security.
The Foreign Ministry commended the efficiency and vigilance of Bahrain’s security authorities in uncovering and addressing activities considered a threat to the kingdom’s stability.
UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan stressed the UAE’s rejection of terrorism and organisations linked to foreign agendas, highlighting the importance of regional and international co-operation in addressing such threats.
Shaikh Abdullah underscored that Bahrain’s security is an integral part of the security of the UAE and GCC countries.
Kuwait expressed its full solidarity with Bahrain and support for the measures undertaken to protect its sovereignty.
Egypt affirmed its categorical rejection of any attempts to undermine Bahrain’s security or infringe on its sovereignty, stressing its steadfast position in support of the security and stability of countries in the region.
It reiterated that the security of Bahrain and all GCC countries is an integral part of Egypt’s national security.
Jordan’s Foreign and Expatriate Affairs Ministry expressed rejection and condemnation of plots uncovered by Bahrain’s authorities, as well as any acts that could undermine the kingdom’s security and stability.
Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam and Shura Council chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh backed Interior Ministry’s measures following the arrest.
Mr Al Musallam said Parliament supports all efforts to protect Bahrain’s security and stability and tackle unlawful activities linked to foreign agendas.
He stressed that the legal action targets individuals who violate the law and is not directed at any segment of Bahraini society. Arab Parliament Speaker Mohammed Ahmed Al Yamahi also stressed the organisation’s rejection of terrorism and extremism as well as groups linked to such activities that seek to undermine the stability of Arab countries, underscoring the importance of strengthening Arab, regional and international co-operation to address security threats.
Arab Federation for Human Rights president Isa Al Arabi commended the security operation, noting that it reflects the advanced capabilities, preparedness, and professionalism of the Interior Ministry in confronting complex threats. He stressed the importance of protecting national identity and community values from extremist ideologies and preventing the exploitation of educational, religious, charitable, and social platforms to promote extremism, hatred, or foreign agendas targeting national unity and social cohesion.