MANAMA: The business and tourism sector in Bahrain is being adversely affected by growing tensions on the streets of the country with unrest sparking fear among businessmen and tourists.
“People are complaining about the increasing violence on the streets. Bahrain is known as a safe and secure country. But tourists are witnessing clashes between protesters and police ... in some areas,” said Jamal Fakhro, an economist and Shoura Council member.
Fakhro said residents in some villages that have seen disturbances live in fear.
Miscreants have also targeted innocent people. Two women sustained serious injuries after being caught in a riot. “The women were driving in one of the villages when their vehicle came under attack by miscreants,” said Maj. Mossa Al-Dossari, head of the Traffic Department.
Foreign workers have also not been spared. Two Asian men were attacked by a group of youths who had illegally gathered, said a human rights group last month. One of the Asian men lost his eyesight.
Since last year, Bahrain has seen sporadic unrest. In December 2007, people protested calling for the release of suspects arrested in connection with the murder of a policeman.
Violence has recently hit the streets again since the arrest of two opposition figures on charges of inciting hatred and funding a terrorist group.
Fakhro urged the Bahraini government to take immediate action to control the situation. “If it continues during the year, then it would start affecting locals and residents,” he said.
