Closing arguments on April 17 in blast case

Manama : Closing arguments will be heard on April 17 in the trial of 32 Bahraini defendants suspected in connection with a blast that killed a police officer in Abu Saiba. However, only 20 of the defendants are in police custody as the rest are at large and will be tried in absentia.

They have been charged with murdering an on duty policeman, establishing a terrorist cell, detonating an explosive, possessing explosives, hiding fugitives and damaging private and public properties.

According to court files, two bombs went off in the area of Abu Saiba on August 28 last year, resulting in killing a police officer as well as injuring other officers and civilians. The blasts also caused damage to a police patrol vehicle as well as civilians’ cars. Investigations led to identify the 32 defendants, who are suspected to be involved in the attacks. But only 20 defendants were arrested.

According to court files, the defendants admitted to forming a terrorist cell, and detonating the explosives.