14 People Injured in Protests of Qatif, Saudi Arabia

Foreign elements blamed for Qatif riots

By ARAB NEWS, Oct 5, 2011, 00:58

RIYADH:

Riots in an Eastern Province town on Monday night that injured 14 people including 11 security officers were instigated by a foreign power, an Interior Ministry official said.

The ministry warned that it would not allow anybody to undermine the Kingdom’s security and stability and those involved in sabotage would be dealt with an iron hand.

“A group of troublemakers assembled... some on motorbikes and carrying petrol bombs, as they began their actions to disrupt security at the behest of a foreign country which tried to undermine the nation’s security in a blatant act of interference,” the official said.

The ministry said the incident took place in Awamiya in the province of Qatif, adding that the troublemakers were gathering at Al-Reef roundabout.

The ministry urged the troublemakers in the city to prove their loyalty to the nation.

“These people have to make it clear whether their loyalty is to Allah and then to the nation and its (religious) authorities,” the ministry said and urged senior men among their relatives to help prevent such actions.

“If they keep quiet they should also take responsibility,” it added.

Police came under gunfire as they tried to disperse the crowd. Nine policemen were shot and wounded and two hurt by petrol bombs, the statement said.

It also said one man and two women were injured by gunfire.

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