Good News: Child released without charge in Bahrain

Mohammad Mohammad ‘Abdulnabi ‘Abdulwasi, a sixteen year old Bahrani child who was held in detention in an adult prison has been released without charge. He was initially transferred from Dry Dock prison, north-eastern Bahrain, to a juvenile detention centre, where his family were able to visit him. According to information received by Amnesty International, following his arrest Mohammad Mohammad ‘Abdulnabi ‘Abdulwasi was kept in a police vehicle for up to six hours, while the police officers carried out their rounds. Later, during his interrogation at the Dry Dock prison, he was reportedly hit by the interrogating officers. The exact reason for his arrest remains unclear.

Mohammad Mohammad ‘Abdulnabi ‘Abdulwasi was arrested at his house in Sitra after it was raided on 11 December by riot police, who allegedly did not show an arrest warrant. During the raid, the riot police apparently broke the main door and took money and other items from the house. His family informed Amnesty International that the riot police asked for an electricity bill (as proof of residence) and while the family were looking for it in another room, Mohammad Mohammad ‘Abdulnabi ‘Abdulwasi was taken without their knowledge. The boy was able to call his family two days after his arrest, informing them he was being held at Dry Dock prison. The day after his arrest he had been taken to the Public Prosecution Office without his lawyer or family.

Under international law, anyone under the age of 18 is a child and children suspected of a criminal offence should be treated according to the rules of the juvenile justice system.

No further action is requested from the UA network. Amnesty International will keep monitoring the situation and will take action when necessary.

Many thanks to all who sent appeals.