Bahraini forces attack supporters of Sheikh Salman

Bahraini regime forces have once again attacked the protesters who were out on the streets across the Persian Gulf state to demand the immediate release of senior Shia opposition leader Sheikh Ali Salman.

On Sunday, the demonstrators took to the streets in the capital Manama and Sitra Island to censure the detention of Sheikh Salman, the leader of the al-Wefaq National Islamic Society opposition party.

However, the demonstrations turned violent after security forces fired tear gas to disperse the protesters.

Similar clashes also erupted during another protest rally in Bilad al-Qadeem in the suburbs of Manama earlier in the day.

Bahraini protesters have held numerous demonstrations in the country since Sheikh Salman was arrested on December 28, 2014, on charges of seeking regime change and collaborating with foreign powers. The Shia cleric has denied the accusations.

His arrest has also triggered massive protests outside the monarchy, with leaders, governments and international organizations across the world calling for his immediate release.

Last week, Sheikh Salman urged his supporters to press ahead with protests over democratic demands in Bahrain.

The ruling Al Khalifa regime has launched a heavy-handed crackdown on the peaceful anti-government movement in Bahrain, which started in 2011.

Bahraini courts have sentenced more than 200 activists to long-term prison sentences on charges of involvement in terrorist activities and acting against the national security. At least 70 activists have received life imprisonment since the uprising began in Bahrain in 2011.

SZH/MKA/HRB

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