Interior Minister hails Bahrain Police

Manama, Dec. 14 (BNA): Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, delivered the following speech marking the Bahrain Police Day on December 14: “In the name of Allah the Merciful “Peace, mercy, and blessings of God “With utmost pride and gratitude, I congratulate, on behalf of the Interior Ministry’s affiliates, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Commander and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, marking Bahrain's National Days in commemoration of the establishment of the modern Bahraini state as an Arab and Muslim country founded by Ahmed Al Fateh in 1783, the anniversary of its full membership in the United Nations, and the anniversary of His Majesty the King’s Accession to the Throne. “During the national celebrations come the Bahrain Police Day, in which the 100th anniversary of the force marked last year to renew loyalty to HM the King, the leader of the journey of accomplishments and progress. We get wisdom and dedication inspirations and the national goodwill strength from HM’s directives. We express, at the same time, our gratitude for the support and care provided to the police personnel, martyrs of duties and their families by HRH the Crown Prince, the President of the Supreme Authority of the Royal Martyrs of Duty Fund. “Dear Brothers, “Out of appreciation of the efforts of Bahrain Police and to protect their sacrifices, along with the acknowledgement of the importance of the security responsibility and dedication to enhance work excellence, I’m glad- on this occasion- to announce the introduction of the Police Protection Programme that covers the legal, security, organisational and administrative aspects. “Police protection aims to expand the knowledge about the rights and duties of police personnel and enable them to carry out their tasks in accordance ith the rule of law; thus, we are working to turn this approach to a reality that takes into consideration the general interests and the reinforcement of guarantees provided by the state to protect security personnel and their families. “In this context, the threats and humiliation of the Coast Guard police by the Qatar Board and Coast Guard are totally unacceptable, for being an abuse against Bahrain police personnel while carrying out their duties. It is not accepted for our sincere security men. “Actually, we have swiftly controlled an armed incident in the middle of the sea through the presence of the required force to tackle the situation at the right time and place and put an end to this reckless and dangerous situation. “This incident was part of the Qatari conduct that targets Bahrainis and their livelihoods, in which 2153 individuals and 560 Bahrain-registered boats had violations registered against them from 2010 to 2020 in waters that have always been a livelihood source for them and their fathers and grandfathers. “All these practices don’t reflect the basic framework of the Gulf Cooperation Council that is based on close ties between states, the belief in the common destiny and the common goals of the citizens of GCC countries. “Bahrainis do not expect such practices from the Qatari authorities because they are against traditions. In addition, Bahrain has always welcomed GCC fishermen in its waters. “Accordingly, the Interior Ministry holds the Qatari side legally accountable for all violations against the citizens and their livelihoods. It will take the required procedures and measures to protect fishermen and their source of incomes. “Brothers, “As part of the development programme of the Interior Ministry, we have been working, over the past years, on setting up security systems according to a comprehensive vision, and following up on the required laws, field and administrative equipment and training programmes. “With the continuation of the dedicated efforts by all, the required factors for the formation of a joint security command have been completed. Meanwhile, modern technology has assisted in the comprehensiveness of the security stand and cohesion and coordination between various security directorates, in a way that reflects the collective security performance. “By Grace of God, and thanks to your sincere efforts, we have been able to register a remarkable advancement in security performance and professional practices in the fight against crimes, resulting in the criminality rate’s drop by 25% despite the population growth. “To support the crime-prevention approach, we focus on protecting youth by expanding the foundations of security culture, initiatives to promote belonging to the nation and reinforcement of national values. “Through a programme to fight violence and addiction, we have been able to cover 80% of schools in Bahrain and more than 120000 male and female students. These efforts have helped in building trust between Bahraini youth and police personnel. It is a crucial matter to build a secure society, in which its members are aware of their responsibility towards the country’s security. “Brothers and Sisters, “Fortunately, the Bahrain Police Day coincides with the golden jubilee of the Women Police, in which females have been a primary element in the security system and partners in the protection of national security and accomplishments. Over the past 50 years, female police personnel have proven their capabilities and competency in carrying out their duties with high and civilised performance. They have made sacrifices and accomplishments through integrated security performance as partners in the security protection process. They have joined new fields and improved their security and community roles. I would like to salute Women Police on this prestigious historical occasion. “Interior Ministry affiliates, “On the occasion of the Bahrain Police Day, I should express sincere thanks and appreciation to your sincere efforts to maintain security and order. We should remember the efforts of the pioneers who honourably served the Interior Ministry. We express thanks to them. We wish those who passed away to rest in eternal peace, and abundant health for those who are still with us. “Finally, December 14 will continue to be a day of honour and glory for the protectors of the righteous to renew the vow to protect the nation, the rule of the law and the power of justice. Lucky is the person who carries out the duty of the Bahrain Police that will continue to be committed to the values and identity of the people of Bahrain, along with the principles of peace, moderation, and equality. “Best wishes to all. “May God protect Bahrain under the leadership of HM the King.”