POLICE officers have arrested six people for their alleged involvement in a barbaric rooster fight following a complaint filed by a leading animal rights advocate.
The incident took place in Arad, where several birds were found injured from fighting in an enclosed space where onlookers apparently watch on after placing bets on the outcome.
The complaint was lodged at Hidd Police Station by Bahrain Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals chairman Mahmood Faraj, who said he had received a tip-off from a member of the public about the planned fight.
“When I received the call about the event, I immediately went to Hidd Police Station to register the case with the authorities,” Mr Faraj told the GDN.
“Police officers later visited the location and reportedly discovered evidence suggesting that illegal animal fighting and abuse were taking place.
“Six individuals were subsequently arrested and the authorities asked me to take custody of two injured roosters involved in the fight so they could receive proper care in a safe environment.
“I was also asked to inspect the other roosters at the site and, sadly, all of them showed visible signs of injury.”
Mr Faraj said he photographed the injured birds to help document the incident and support the investigation.
An injured bird in the cage
“I also provided my statement to the authorities explaining that these animals were being forced to fight and mistreated, which is extremely unfortunate,” he added.
Mr Faraj explained that the birds involved were not ordinary domestic roosters, but Aseel chickens – a powerful game breed originating from India and Pakistan, recognised for their muscular physique, upright stance, strong beak and striking bright-red face and comb.
“These birds are known for their aggression, bravery and stamina,” he said. “They shouldn’t be kept together because they are a highly territorial game breed with a strong, ingrained fighting instinct and will fight with other birds.”
He warned that violent clashes between them can result in severe injuries, including deep wounds, loss of eyesight and permanent mutilation.
The swift response by police was praised by Mr Faraj, who said firm action against such incidents sends a strong message that animal cruelty will not be tolerated in the kingdom.
“I would personally like to thank the director-General of Muharraq Governorate Police Directorate, Brigadier Sultan Ahmed Al Kaabi, Hidd Police Station head Colonel Dr Osama Bahar and Muharraq Prosecution’s Muath Al Haqee for their tremendous work,” he added.
Mr Faraj
Mr Faraj noted that rooster fighting has become far less common in Bahrain in recent years due to increased co-operation between animal welfare activists and the authorities.
“Rooster fighting is not as widespread as it once was because of the combined efforts to ensure that those involved are held accountable,” he explained.
He also warned that anyone considering organising similar events should reconsider, stressing that such practices harm Bahrain’s image and values.
“We have worked very hard to stop these fights, including dog fighting, which has been reduced significantly over recent years,” he added.
n As part of wider efforts to combat animal abuse, the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry has launched a dedicated hotline allowing the public to report cases of animal mistreatment and neglect. The hotline, 17987227, operates from Sunday to Thursday between 7am and 2pm.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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