A receptionist at a gym in Ramli Mall in Manama has been sentenced to three months in jail and deportation for allowing customers to work out for free and pocketing the losses. The gym owner filed a complaint against the receptionist, accusing her of falsifying attendance logs and giving non-paying clients access to the facilities. The fraudulent scheme reportedly took place from mid-June 2022 to December 2023. The court documents reveal that the receptionist doctored attendance records to cover her absences and allowed several gym-goers to train without paying membership fees. This led to financial damage for the gym.
The gym owner also accused the receptionist of stealing written warnings and key company documents before fleeing to the Philippines. She was also accused of shirking her duties by engaging in disputes with members and failing to distribute membership cards. Additionally, the receptionist allegedly kept her own salary receipt book instead of following company protocols, which exacerbated the financial mess caused by her actions. The court delivered its judgement under Article 424 of the Bahraini Penal Code, which addresses embezzlement by employees. The case also invoked Article 395, which covers breach of trust.
The receptionist’s actions not only resulted in financial losses for the gym but also compromised sensitive information about employees, suppliers, and customers. By allowing non-paying clients to access the gym facilities, she not only violated trust but also breached the terms of her employment contract. The court’s decision to sentence her to three months in jail and deportation serves as a warning to employees who engage in similar fraudulent activities.
The gym owner, represented by lawyer Essam Al Tayeb, took legal action against the receptionist to seek justice for the financial damages and breach of trust. Embezzlement and tampering with company records are serious offenses that can have legal consequences. By holding the receptionist accountable for her actions, the court sends a message that such behavior will not be tolerated in the business community.
It is crucial for businesses to implement strict protocols and safeguards to prevent employee misconduct and fraudulent activities. Proper monitoring of attendance records, financial transactions, and access to company documents can help identify any irregularities or unauthorized actions. By enforcing these protocols and conducting regular audits, businesses can mitigate the risk of embezzlement and breaches of trust.
In conclusion, the case of the receptionist at the gym in Ramli Mall highlights the importance of accountability and integrity in the workplace. Employees have a responsibility to uphold the trust placed in them by their employers and to act in the best interests of the company. By taking legal action against individuals who engage in fraudulent activities, businesses can protect their financial assets and reputation. The court’s decision to convict the receptionist for embezzlement and tampering with company records serves as a reminder of the consequences of breaching trust and committing financial crimes. Businesses must remain vigilant and proactive in preventing such misconduct to ensure their long-term success and sustainability.
