Statement of the Bahrain Ministry of Interior on the Questioning of Nabeel Rajab

MANAMA, Bahrain, August 20, 2011 -

On the evening of August 19, 2011, the General Director of the Northern Governorate Police in Bahrain announced that Mr. Nabeel Rajab had been summoned for routine questioning about false and potentially incendiary information being conveyed through his website in social media. Mr. Rajab was summoned openly and in full accordance with Bahraini law.  He was not arrested or detained, and he left the police offices within one hour.

The government of Bahrain has become increasingly concerned that unconfirmed and potentially incendiary information could incite fear and anger that might lead to public disturbances and even violence.

The government of Bahrain supports the freedom of its citizens to express their political opinions and acknowledges that opinions from many different individuals and groups can play a positive role in the national reconciliation process.  The government, however, is deeply concerned that unconfirmed rumors or incendiary information issued by any well-known organization or individual could create a dangerous situation in which lives and property are placed at risk. 

Police Media Center +973-17571144