[editor note: new story, old news? working on verification of currency of reported events]<\/p>\n
Bahraini forces attack villages
\n27\/05\/2011 05:19:06 PM GMT <\/p>\n
Saudi-backed Bahraini forces have attacked anti-government protesters in several villages across the Persian Gulf sheikdom.<\/p>\n
Witnesses say regime troops used tear gas and concussion bombs to disperse protesters in Diraz, Bani Jamrah and some other villages on Friday.<\/p>\n
The protesters called for an end to the Al Khalifa rule and the immediate release of detained anti-government protesters.<\/p>\n
According to witnesses, Bahraini protesters in recent days have their faces covered to avoid recognition by regime forces.<\/p>\n
Saudi-backed Bahraini troops have arrested hundreds of anti-government protesters during overnight operations after identifying them based on pictures taken from opposition rallies.<\/p>\n
There were no immediate reports of casualties or arrests on Friday.<\/p>\n
Since the beginning of anti-regime protests in Bahrain in mid-February, Manama has launched a harsh crackdown on anti-government protesters, rounding up senior opposition figures and activists in dawn raids and arresting doctors, nurses, lawyers and journalists who have voiced support for the protest movement.<\/p>\n
While the whereabouts of many detainees are still unknown, Bahraini authorities have begun to try a number of detained activists in what the opposition calls kangaroo courts.<\/p>\n
Protesters have been charged with several counts such as attempting to overthrow the monarchy, and they are being tried in a special security court set up under martial law.<\/p>\n
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have criticized the Bahraini government for its brutal crackdown on civilians.<\/p>\n
The International Committee of the Red Cross, which visits detainees in conflict situations, has been trying to see and contact Bahraini detained activists since mid-March. But so far Manama has refused to grant it permission.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Bahrain’s state news agency says that military prosecutors have asked the country’s highest court to review death penalties issued against two anti-regime protesters.<\/p>\n
Human Rights Watch as also called on the country to stop trying civilians in military courts. …source<\/a><\/p>\n