Bahrain security forces today militarised whole sections of the country in an attempt to stop 10 planned opposition marches in 10 separate areas, according to the opposition. They laid siege to villages and areas using various weaponry, causing a number of injuries to pro-democracy protesters. Many of those injured are afraid to use state medical services as they believe it will leave them open to arrest.
The opposition says the crackdown carried on into the late night, with regime forces raiding homes and arresting individuals, without presenting warrants. In one horrific incident described by the opposition security personnel broke into a home and attacked a woman whilst she was showering.
Security forces began by blocking roads leading to the protest points and enforcing a curfew using tear gas and birdshot guns. The crackdown came in response to a call from the opposition to protest in 10 different areas simultaneously. Authorities had denied permission but their were rumours in the morning that the Minister of Interior was considering some areas of protest, after pressure from international NGO’s. However, all areas were heavily militarised suggesting Bahrain will continue to deny freedom of expression.
Photos from the repression here
