MANAMA: Bahrain authorities say a policeman has been sentenced to seven years in prison for the fatal shooting of a protester during the beginning of the Gulf nation’s uprising two years ago.

The decision comes as Bahrain’s leadership seeks to open crisis-easing talks with political factions. They have been pressing for a greater political voice.

More than 55 people have died in the unrest in the strategic nation.

The official Bahrain News Agency yesterday quoted a chief prosecutor as saying police gunfire killed the protester, Ali Abdulhadi Al-Mushaima, one of first people killed in the clashes.

A policewoman is accused of torturing detainees. A court hearing is scheduled next week.