Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa said the Anti-Human Trafficking Directorate handled 70 reports between 2025 and the first half of 2026, resulting in the protection of 84 victims and the initiation of legal proceedings against 92 suspects.
The minister expressed appreciation to the members of the National Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons and civil society organisations for their contributions. He also commended the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science, particularly the Anti-Human Trafficking Directorate, and the co-operating security authorities for their dedicated efforts, continued improvement in operational performance, and strong commitment to their security and social responsibilities.
General Shaikh Rashid delivered a statement marking the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed annually on July 30.
The minister said Bahrain joins countries around the world in commemorating the occasion as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen international co-operation and co-ordinated action to combat human trafficking.
General Shaikh Rashid reaffirmed the kingdom’s steadfast commitment to regional co-ordination, collective action and international partnership in addressing this serious crime, guided by the directives of His Majesty King Hamad and with the support and follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
The minister said Bahrain’s achievements in combating human trafficking and maintaining its leading international standing in this field require continued efforts to strengthen that position further and sustain its record of excellence. He stressed the importance of proactive action, security preparedness, and the use of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence in combating human trafficking and protecting victims.
General Shaikh Rashid also announced the launch of a scientific research award dedicated to combating human trafficking, aimed at supporting national efforts to address the crime.
• Foreign Minister and International Human Rights Committee chairman Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani praised Bahrain’s pioneering human rights achievements in combating human trafficking and addressing digital fraud and cyber crimes.
Dr Al Zayani noted that Bahrain has maintained its leading position in the field of combating human trafficking, according to the report of the US State Department, for the eighth year, which reflects the success of the national system in preventing this crime, within the framework of community partnership, co-operation with diplomatic and consular missions, and partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the International Organisation for Migration, and other relevant bodies.
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