Security forces have arrested Nimr Baqer Al-Nimr, one of the instigators of Awamiya riots in the Eastern Province city of Qatif, Interior Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Mansour Al-Turki said yesterday.

“The arrest took place at 4 p.m. when Al-Nimr and those with him tried to resist security forces and opened fire at police,” the spokesman said.

Al-Nimr’s car also hit a patrol police jeep as he tried to flee the scene, the Saudi Press Agency quoted Al-Turki as saying.

He said Al-Nimr, who was injured in the incident, was taken to hospital for treatment and to complete legal procedures.

Al-Turki said the government would not show any leniency toward those who provoke riots.