MANAMA, Bahrain (AP) Security forces in Bahrain have used tear gas and armored vehicles to drive back protesters streaming toward a heavily guarded square that was once the center for pro-reform demonstrations in the Gulf nation.
Witnesses say hundreds of people marched on Pearl Square in Bahrain’s capital Manama after a massive funeral procession Friday for a 78-year-old man, who opposition groups claim died after being beaten by police. Authorities say the man died of natural causes.
There were no immediate reports of injuries.
Bahrain’s majority Shiites began protests for greater rights in February inspired by other Arab uprisings. The country’s Sunni monarchy has offered some concessions, but refuses to give up its control over state affairs.
