Bahrain: Further protests by Shi'a activists likely following gatherings overnight March 12/13

Event

Further protests by Shi'a activists are likely in Bahrain in the coming days following demonstrations west of Manama overnight March 12/13. The action was sparked by and in opposition to the execution of 81 people for various crimes by the Saudi Arabian government. Saudi state media announced the executions March 12. Among those executed are thought to be several Shi'a individuals from Saudi Arabia's predominantly Shi'a Qatif area. Likely gathering areas for further protests are predominantly Shi'a locations outside of Manama, including Abu Saiba, Al-Dair, Al-Markh, Buri, Diraz, Karbabad, Ma'ameer, Malkiya, Shakhura, and Sitra.

Authorities will almost certainly increase the presence of security personnel near protest areas. Police often restrict access to demonstrations, and localized traffic disruptions are possible near rallies, particularly in Shi'a enclaves. Acts of violence are possible. Demonstrators could burn tires, block roads, and clash with security personnel. Radicalized elements of the opposition movement could target police and security checkpoints with Molotov cocktails or crude explosive devices.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the potential for violence. If a protest forms near you, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure location. Do not take photographs of demonstrators or the security forces. Allow extra time if driving near the affected areas; consider planning alternative routes around potential demonstration sites.