Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain - Monday 27 July 2009: The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) is conducting a nation wide investigation and search for users who operate Radiocommunications equipment without a frequency licences that interfere with licensed radio equipment.

According to the Telecommunications Law, use of the radio spectrum in Bahrain is only permitted by users who have a frequency licence.  TRA issues frequency licences to users of telecommunications frequencies.  However, there are some users who violate the Telecommunications Law by transmitting radio signals without a frequency licence or use the radio spectrum outside the terms of the frequency licence issued by TRA.

Mr. Mohammed Mahmood, Director of Technical Operations at TRA stated "TRA has embarked on a campaign to locate these illegal users and to stop their radio transmissions, as illegal use of the radio spectrum causes interference to licensed users and degrades the quality of services provided by licensed telecommunications service providers operating in Bahrain."

According to Section 73 paragraph (g) of the Telecommunications Law, any person operating radiocommunications equipment without a frequency licence is punishable by a fine of up to BD500,000 and the confiscation of all equipment and tools used in committing the offence.

TRA advises all users of telecommunications spectrum to check that they have an up to date Licence.  Failure to have a valid licence may result in confiscation of equipment and a fine being imposed.

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About TRA
Since its establishment in 2002 the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of the Kingdom of Bahrain (TRA) has been working with government, consumers, operators and investors to develop the Kingdom of Bahrain as the regions most modern communications hub and facilitating the growth of the market. As an exemplar Regulator for the region, TRA independently carries out its duties in a transparent and non-discriminatory manner. More information about TRA can be viewed at www.tra.org.bh

Media Contact
Abdulelah Abdulla
Communications Executive
Tel: +973 17 520000
Mobile: +973 36368555
Fax: +973 17 532125
Email: aabdulla@tra.org.bh

© Press Release 2009