A senior official has called on citizens and residents to be legally aware so that they file civil and criminal cases at the appropriate courts.
Hidd Police Station head Colonel Dr Osama Bahar stressed that while police would not deny anyone the right to report a case, members of the public should educate themselves on the distinction between civil and criminal matters.
“Even if you are not a lawyer, you must know the proper jurisdiction of criminal and civil courts,” said Col Dr Bahar.
“An important part of your legal duty is knowing these procedures. It does not matter how sensitive, emotional, or upsetting the subject is to you, the Criminal Courts will rule only on legal matters and they go above and beyond to protect people’s rights.
“The Criminal Courts and the Public Prosecution will apply the law such as the Penal Code, the anti-drug law, and laws that include penalties such as imprisonment, jail or fines.
“Civil disputes and disagreements fall within the jurisdiction of the Civil Courts.”
Col Dr Bahar
Col Dr Bahar made the remarks during the Al Aman show broadcast on social media.
He stated that the Public Prosecution is responsible for criminal cases, and if it is found that there is no criminal aspect, then the case is closed.
He requested people to educate themselves on the differences between civil and criminal cases to ensure they file a complaint at the concerned court.
“Civil claim-related cases include non-payment of rent, issues with the quality of products, or for example, if a person is dissatisfied with a service,” he pointed out.
“These are the kinds of cases that fall within the jurisdiction of the civil judiciary.
“Cases involving fraud, such as issuing a cheque for any purpose without the appropriate balance, fall under the jurisdiction of the criminal judiciary and are crimes punishable by law.”
However, regardless of whether it is a civil or criminal matter, people can always go to their nearest police station to file a case, he said, assuring that ‘nobody will be turned away’.
“Even if it is not a criminal matter, it does not mean that police will refuse to register cases,” he explained.
“Police stations are ready to receive all complaints, including civil ones,” he said, adding that legal awareness is crucial.
The GDN reported last month that a regulatory decision that enhanced services for senior citizens and people with disabilities, to ensure they have full access to justice, was issued by a top official.
According to Attorney General Dr Ali Al Buainain, the decision aims to ensure that such people have their humanitarian needs taken under full consideration, and their dignity preserved.
Measures to be introduced include visits by officers, remote communication methods, expedition of cases and more to facilitate investigations and other processes.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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