Five Bahraini Members of Parliament (MPs) have come together to propose stricter regulations on the sale and transfer of mobile phone lines in Bahrain. These MPs, including Basma Mubarak, Mohammed Al Ahmed, Jaleela Al Sayed, Hanan Fardan, and Bader Al Tamimi, are highlighting the importance of national security and public interest in addressing this issue. They argue that the ease of obtaining and discarding mobile phone lines allows criminals to operate anonymously, posing a significant threat to public safety in today’s technologically advanced age.
The explanatory memorandum accompanying the proposal points out the increasing use of mobile phone lines in various crimes such as fraud and extortion. To combat this issue, the MPs believe that Bahrain should implement stringent controls on the purchase and sale of mobile phone lines, following in the footsteps of other countries that have successfully prevented misuse through similar regulations. This could include setting limits on the number of lines an individual foreigner can own and enhancing the tracking of illicit activities.
The proposed regulations aim to enhance security and safety within Bahraini society by reducing the use of mobile phones in criminal activities and ensuring accurate registration of users under their real names. The MPs are confident that by implementing these measures, Bahrain can effectively curb cybercrime, particularly the recent surge in fraud and extortion cases. They believe that stricter regulations on mobile phone lines will make it harder for criminals to operate in anonymity, ultimately contributing to a safer and more secure environment.
The MPs’ proposal emphasizes the need for Bahrain to keep up with the evolving technology and communication landscape by implementing measures that align with international best practices in preventing mobile phone line misuse. By introducing restrictions on the sale and transfer of mobile phone lines, Bahrain can protect its citizens and visitors from falling victim to cybercrimes that capitalize on the anonymity provided by easily obtainable phone lines.
In conclusion, the proposal put forward by the five Bahraini MPs underscores the importance of prioritizing national security and public safety in addressing the misuse of mobile phone lines in the country. By implementing stricter regulations on the sale and transfer of these lines, Bahrain can mitigate the risks associated with criminal activities facilitated by the anonymity provided by mobile phones. The proposed measures aim to track and limit the ownership of mobile phone lines, ultimately enhancing security and curbing cybercrime in Bahrain for the benefit of its residents and visitors.