UN calls on Bahrain to probe protesters’ deaths

A UN human rights chief today urged an investigation into a Bahraini security raid which killed five people last month and expressed concern at what he called a crackdown on dissent in the Gulf kingdom.

Bahraini police pushed into Diraz village outside the capital Manama on 23 May, according to the government, to arrest suspected militants and others wanted on security charges.

But activists from the country’s Shia Muslim majority accused the Sunni-led authorities of using excessive force to intimidate the sect and its spiritual leader, Ayatollah Isa Qassim, who lives in Diraz guarded by a sit-in of supporters.

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Five were killed and 286 arrested as they confronted advancing police, who used tear gas and birdshot.

I urge the Government to investigate the events of 23 May, in particular the loss of lives, to ensure that the findings are made public and that those responsible are held accountable

the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad Al-Hussein, said in a statement.

I urge Bahrain to choose a different path – one of engagement and dialogue, as well as accountability for violence, regardless of the perpetrator.

There was no immediate response by the Bahraini government to the statement, but it denies targeting the Shia sect or any systematic abuse of rights.