Bahrain Regime denies murderous misuse of Chemical Gas

Watch Bahrain Police NOT fire Chemical Gas directly into Home

Bahrain slams tear gas death claims
9 August, 2012 – Trade Arabia

Bahrain has strongly denied claims that anyone has died or suffered serious injuries as a result of tear gas, with the Information Affairs Authority (IAA) saying there was no evidence to prove the tear gas used by police was lethal.

‘Any means that have been exercised by security forces adhere to international standards of riot control,’ said a spokesman.

A recent report by the US-based Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) organisation alleged it had resulted in the ‘maiming, blinding and even killing of protesters’.

‘It is increasingly evident that tear gas has effects far more severe than commonly understood,’ said its deputy director Richard Sollom.

‘Suggestions that the use of tear gas in Bahrain is severely injurious or even lethal are simply not backed up by any research or proof,” the spokesman said.

‘The government of Bahrain denies and condemns the use of lethal force or unlawful means in controlling demonstrations in the kingdom.’

The IAA said it was also important to consider the situation faced by the security forces when they are forced to resort to using tear gas.

‘Where there has been a response by the Interior Ministry, it is in response to illegal, violent or disruptive acts being committed and has no bearing on what the person committing the acts believes in or which community he or she belongs to,’ said the spokesman.

‘The disruptions to others’ lives and economic interests are not acceptable and it is the government’s responsibility to create a safe environment for both of those to survive.’

The spokesman said while the United Nation’s International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights recognised the right of people to protest in states they must conform with the law in the ‘interests of national security or public safety, public order/or the protection of the rights and freedom of others’.

Injured

‘It is imperative to establish that any allegations regarding the use of force are taken very seriously,’ he said. …more