Bahrain cracks down on illegal workers
LMRA conducts week-long inspections in the Gulf state
Bahrain’s Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) conducted 1,329 inspection campaigns and visits from February 4 to 10, 2024, resulting in the detention of 68 irregular workers and the deportation of 163 violators from the Gulf country.
During the week-long initiative, the LMRA monitored various violations related to regulating laws, focusing on the Labour Market Regulatory Authority and the Residency Laws. Legal measures were promptly taken to address the observed violations.
The inspection activities encompassed 1,312 visits to diverse shops across all governorates.
Additionally, 17 joint inspection campaigns were carried out, with seven campaigns in the Capital Governorate, two in the Muharraq Governorate, three in the Northern Governorate, and five in the Southern Governorate.
Government involvement
Several government entities collaborated in the inspection campaigns, including the Ministry of Interior, represented by the Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs (NPRA), the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Evidence, the Sentence Enforcement Directorate, and the Governorate’s Police Directorates.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority also participated.
The LMRA emphasised the importance of continuous coordination with government agencies to intensify inspection campaigns throughout all governorates of Bahrain.
The objective is to promptly address any violations or practices that could adversely affect the stability and competitiveness of the labour market or harm the economic and social security of Gulf countries.
Reiterating their commitment to transparency and community engagement, the LMRA renewed its call for support from all members of society.
Bahrain residents are encouraged to report illegal labour practices by using the electronic form available on the LMRA’s website, www.lmra.gov.bh, or by contacting the LMRA’s call centre at 17506055.
Alternatively, Bahraini citizens can submit reports through the government’s Suggestions and Complaints System (Tawasul).
According to a Bahrain News Agency statement, the LMRA underlines the significance of collective efforts in maintaining a fair and compliant labour market, ensuring the workforce’s well-being, and safeguarding Bahrain’s economic and social fabric.
As with other oil-rich GCC nations, scores of citizens from Asia work illegally in Bahrain, mainly drawn from Pakistan, India, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.
Featured image: Manama skyline in Bahrain. Image: Charles Adrien Fournier
Last Updated on 9 months by News Desk 1
