Bahrain: Fatal Sea Crash Case Deepens, Drugs, Forged Meds And Fishing Violations

Gulf Insider

17-05-2025

A forensic toxicology review has been ordered by the Lower Criminal Court in connection with a deadly boat crash off the coast of Bahrain that left two men dead near Al-Muharraq Island.
One of the boats involved was later towed ashore at Malkiya, where a body was discovered onboard. A second victim was found near the Budaiya slipway. The court has instructed the Public Prosecution to secure an expert report from the state's toxicology lab as part of the ongoing investigation.
Three men a Bahraini national and two men of Asian nationality – stand accused in the case, which has since expanded to include allegations of drug use, poor safety protocols, and unauthorised fishing.
The first defendant has been released on BD100 bail, while the other two remain in custody. Prosecutors allege the Bahraini defendant caused the deaths through reckless boat operation while under the influence of drugs. He also faces additional charges for possessing Pregabalin without a medical permit and failing to equip the vessel with basic safety gear. Authorities said the boat had no a jackets, fire extinguisher, first ai identification system, or working navigation lights.
All three men have also been charged with bottom trawling in Bahraini waters using banned 'Karaf ' fishing nets. Meanwhile, the two Asian nationals face further charges related to overstaying their residency permits.
During the trial, defence lawyer Hussain Jawad argued that his client had not consumed any banned substances. He said the man suffers from chronic disc-related back pain and regularly takes prescribed medication. While on a trip to Saudi Arabia to purchase engine oil, the defendant reportedly experienced pain and visited a pharmacy in Dammam, a visit Jawad claims is supported by mobile phone records. The pharmacist gave him medication to ease the discomfort, unaware that the pills may have contained Pregabalin.
Jawad suggested that the substance detected in his client's system could have been a legally prescribed painkiller, and called for further lab testing and full access to the toxicology findings.
An officer from the Maritime Safety Directorate testified that his review of witness statements, technical documents, and scene reports failed to establish who was at fault. He added that electronic tracking data was outdated and offered no clear record of either vessel's movements on the day of the crash. Only one version of events had been documented, with no supporting evidence.
In his expert opinion, both parties bore equal responsibility for the fatal incident. The court has adjourned the case pending submission of the toxicology report and additional evidence.