Gun firings at two Bahrain maatams

Two maatams (religious and community centres) were attacked in the Northern Governorate of Bahrain in the wee hours of Friday, it has been confirmed. Several rounds were fired at both centres in Dumistan and Hamala villages by an unidentified individual, without causing any casualties. The attacks apparently took place simultaneously between 3:30 AM – 4:00 AM. Interior Ministry’s Forensics team inspected the facilities and an investigation has been launched into the details of the incidents, after an official complaint was filed. This came on the same day when a deadly assault on a similar centre around 100 KM to the west of the island, in Saihat village in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, killing five people and injuring nine. Saudi authorities confirmed the death of the gunman who opened fired at the centre on Friday evening. A group calling itself “Islamic State – Bahrain State” claimed responsibility of the attack.

Meanwhile a statement released by the Interior Ministry said that complainants reported hearing sound of gunshots.
"Police responded to the scene and initial investigation revealed holes in some of the doors and windows of the mattams," said the statement.

"Two bullet casings and two spent bullets were found at one of the sites. The items were seized for forensic testing.  The investigation continues to identify and arrest the suspects involved. The Public Prosecution was also notified."

Anyone with any information is asked to call the police hotline at 80008008.  All calls are treated as anonymous.

(Report by Muhannad Mansoor)