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Bahrain arrests rioters ahead of F1 race

19 April 2012 04:48 (UTC +04:00)

Baku-APA. Bahrain security chief on Wednesday night announced that they arrested several rioters and vandals taking part in illegal gatherings ahead of the Formula one race that will kick off here on Friday, APA reports quoting Xinhua.

Chief of Public Security Major-General Tariq Al Hassan said the suspects were arrested for "blocking roads and endangering peopleâ€™ s lives by attacking them as well as policemen with Molotov cocktails, iron rods and stones."

He said that legal action was taken against them in coordination with the Public Prosecutor, and the arrests were made after an investigation and identification of the suspects.

The official affirmed that maintaining security and peace among the public were the top priorities for security men and any violation was tackled by police with â€™zero toleranceâ€™.

Anti-government protestors staged rallies across the country on Wednesday with majority turning ugly as youth clashed with security forces. They are demanding release of political prisoners arrested last year during the unrest.

In the heart of the capital, shoppers shut down their shops as protestors gathered as they were confronted with riot police deployed heavily in Manama and other parts that witness frequent nightly clashes.

Teams have already arrived for the race with logistic and support staff completing last minute preparations on Wednesday at the circuit.

Traffic authorities have also intensified its plan to facilitate movement of vehicles with police patrols deployed across in key junctions leading to the circuit.

Bahrainâ€™s Crown Prince Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa said the success of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix which will be held between April 22-24, would be a success for all of Bahrain and its people.

"This race is more than a mere global sport event and should not be politicized to serve certain goals, which may be detrimental to this international gathering," Shaikh Salman said.