Bahrain convicts 11 in Iranian spy case, nine get life sentences

Bahrain has convicted 11 individuals accused of spying for Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), handing down life sentences to nine of them. The High Criminal Court issued its verdict in two distinct terrorism-related cases, also sentencing the remaining two defendants to three-year prison terms. All materials seized in connection with the cases were ordered confiscated.

According to the Head of the Terrorism Crimes Prosecution, the defendants were involved in intelligence gathering on critical installations within Bahrain. This information was allegedly passed to the IRGC with the aim of supporting hostile and terrorist operations that threatened the kingdom's security and interests. Investigations revealed that a fugitive defendant, reportedly working for the IRGC, recruited individuals inside Bahrain to monitor and photograph sensitive facilities.

Further details from the first case indicate that one defendant rented accommodations near key sites for surveillance purposes before transmitting data to their alleged handler. Another defendant, involved in money exchange and cryptocurrency transactions with ties to Iran, is accused of facilitating financial transfers between Iranian and Bahraini accounts to fund operational activities. Two other defendants allegedly provided cover for these surveillance operations, aware of their illicit nature.

The second case involved similar allegations, with a fugitive defendant accused of recruiting operatives to identify and gather information on critical infrastructure. Prosecutors stated that investigations were promptly launched upon receiving reports, involving interrogations, examination of electronic devices, and witness testimonies. Technical experts analyzed digital evidence, concluding that sensitive data had been provided that could have supported hostile activities against Bahrain.