Bahrain: Police disperse protest in Diraz May 23; casualties reported

Event

Bahraini police fired tear gas and live ammunition at protesters at a sit-in supporting Shi’ite cleric Isa Qassim in Diraz on the morning of Tuesday, May 23. One individual was killed and several others were injured. According to local authorities, the police operation was launched to “maintain security and public order.” Further clashes are likely in Diraz and other Shi’ite areas in Bahrain throughout the day.

Context

Qassim was arrested by Bahraini authorities and sentenced to one year in prison on Sunday, May 21, after being accused of collecting funds illegally and money laundering.  

Bahrain's Shi'ite Muslims regularly accuse the royal family and the government of marginalizing their community. Protests are a frequent occurrence across Bahrain, particularly on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and often result in violent clashes. As public demonstrations are not authorized by the Bahraini authorities, police units are known to use force and tear gas to disperse crowds.

Advice

Individuals present in Bahrain are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations and to keep abreast of the situation.