TRA locates and stops spectrum users violating the terms of their frequency licences

TRA staff monitoring the use of the radio spectrum have located a number of sources who are violating the conditions of their frequency licence including the permitted transmit power.

These transmissions are illegal and TRA has taken action to stop them. The investigation will continue until all users who violate their licence conditions have been identified.

According to the Telecommunications Law, operating radiocommunications equipment without a valid frequency licence is an offence punishable by an up to BD500,000 fine and the confiscation of all equipment and tools used.

Mr. Mohammed Mahmood, Director of Technical Operations at TRA stated

"The radio spectrum is a limited resource which contributes significantly to the economic development of the Kingdom of `Bahrain. We need to ensure fair access to as many users as possible, however, those users who operate without a licence or outside the terms of the licence issued by TRA deny others the opportunity to operate radiocommunications equipment efficiently. Therefore TRA staff will continue to monitor the use of the radio spectrum and where necessary will initiate legal action. TRA is determined to ensure that users who are operating legally are not affected by illegal usage of the spectrum."

Phil Harris, Manager of Licensing and Operations at TRA added "One user was found to be operating at over the licensed transmit level. This user, a well establish and respected organisation, was unaware of their violation and had relied upon their equipment supplier to set the levels."

Members of the public who wish to use radio communications equipment must obtain a frequency licence from TRA. A frequency licence will define the frequency on which the licensee is permitted to transmit as well as other important parameters such as the permitted transmit power.