A vow to take strong action against acts of vandalism targeting public property has been made by a top municipal official.
Northern Municipal Council chairman Dr Sayed Shubbar Al Wedaie condemned people who indulge in ‘destructive behaviour’, following a viral circulating online of newly-installed concrete benches vandalised on Barbar’s coast.
He told his colleagues at the council meeting yesterday that the footage, shared by concerned citizens, revealed ‘an act of senseless destruction by an irresponsible group, blatantly violating the values and traditions of Bahraini society’.
The chairman, who is also Barbar councillor, described the incident as a clear attack on public rights and an outrageous crime against the community as the benches were made possible through the generous donation of Haji Hassan Al A’ali Foundation.
“These benches were provided in response to public demand, offering visitors a comfortable space to rest and enjoy the historic coastal environment,” said Dr Al Wedaie.
“It is disheartening to see the destruction of facilities created for the benefit of the community,” he added.
“We worked tirelessly to secure these benches and they were meant to enhance the experience of beachgoers who cherish this historic location.”
He lamented the act of sabotage which reflected ‘a dangerous culture of recklessness and disregard for public property’.
Dr Al Wedaie called for stronger social and legal measures to counter such acts, urging authorities and members of the public to take a stand against vandalism.
“We need to strengthen oversight by encouraging the community to play an active role in reporting and preventing such incidents,” he said.
“We also need to enhance legal and administrative monitoring and support government agencies in enforcing laws against vandalism.
“Religious and educational platforms can be used to promote responsible behaviour.”
He urged media outlets to expose and condemn acts of sabotage as destruction of public property ‘is a betrayal of the trust placed in the community’.
“It is imperative that we unite to combat these negative behaviours, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable,” he added.
He stressed that safeguarding public assets is a collective responsibility, urging residents to be proactive in preserving the country’s resources.
He reiterated that such acts of vandalism were not just isolated incidents but symptoms of a deeper issue that must be addressed through a combination of legal, social and educational interventions.
“This is not merely an attack on property, it is an attack on the values we stand for,” he said.
“The community must reject and resist such acts, ensuring that our public spaces remain protected for future generations.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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