Statement on UK conviction of Abdul Raoof Al Shayeb

Manama, Dec. 16 (BNA): The Kingdom of Bahrain notes with interest the conviction in the UK courts of Abdul Raoof Al Shayeb on terrorism related charges. The Bahrain government has consistently stated that a number of individuals known to be involved in terrorist activities and violent political extremism, including Abdul Raoof Al Shayeb, do so under the guise of human rights activism. Indeed, Abdul Raoof Al Shayeb was previously convicted of terrorist offences by Bahrain's courts. Bahrain therefore urges Western human rights groups and parliamentarians to practice caution and take greater care in validating the claims and authenticity of individuals such as Abdul Raoof Al Shayeb, or risk unwittingly promoting and aiding violent political extremism and, indeed, the type of terrorist activity which has been highlighted through today’s verdict.