Clashes flare up between Bahrain Police, Protestors ahead of F1

Bahraini regime forces have attacked demonstrators in several villages near the capital Manama ahead of the April 22 Formula One Grand Prix auto race.
Clashes broke out between security forces and protesters on Saturday. Police used tear gas and sound grenades to disperse the demonstrators. 

Protesters were calling for the cancelation of the Formula One sporting event. 

Bahraini activists say the Manama regime is using the auto race to cover up human rights violations in the country. 

Bahraini Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa has guaranteed the safety of the racing drivers and teams. 

However, a security adviser to the Bahraini regime said on April 19 Manama cannot guarantee security at the auto race. Former assistant commissioner of the London Metropolitan Police Service John Yates said, “People say can we guarantee security. Of course we can’t guarantee security. I’d be a fool to sit here and say that.” 

Yates was hired by Manama for a six-month contract in December 2011 to advise the Bahraini government on police reforms following a November report by the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry, which said regime forces “resorted to the use of unnecessary and excessive force, terror-inspiring behavior and unnecessary damage to property” during popular protests in the country. 

The former UK police officer also stated that the Bahraini police “would respond with live” ammunition in case of “track incursions.” 

Bahraini demonstrators say they are determined to continue protests against holding the controversial Formula One event despite brutality exercised by the regime forces, according to Press TV.