A YOUNGSTER accused of defaming religious symbols has been taken into custody, pending investigation.

The Public Prosecution charged the 19-year-old with defaming the Prophet's wife, Aisha, as well as his companions.

"The youth has admitted regularly posting insults defaming the mother of the believers, Aisha, and the companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) on a website," Public Prosecutor Dr Ali bin Fadhel Al Buainain said.

Police tracked down the accused and confiscated the electronic equipment he was using to post his defamatory comments.

The youth managed to access the website under new membership every time he was denied entry.

The Public Prosecution ordered the seized electronic material to be scrutinised and for the youth to be put on trial soon and face tough punishment.

In statement issued yesterday, it stressed the need to deter such deviant practices which may fuel sedition and case tension in Bahrain.