ESCALATING violence, sabotage and vandalism have been condemned by the Shura Council.

Councillors regretted incidents in which safety, stability and security were being threatened with youths targeting policemen, roads being blocked and tyres being burnt.

“These are outlawed acts that have huge repercussions on the whole nation as it is a direct trespass on the freedoms and rights of locals and expatriates,” said council secretary-general Abduljalil Al Tareef as he read the council’s statement at yesterday’s session.

“We acknowledge the dangerousness of those acts and demand restraint from those doing them.

“Religious facilities should be places where tolerance and love are promoted and not places to call for sabotage, vandalism and violence.”

It follows comments made by Shia cleric Shaikh Isa Qassim during a Friday sermon, in which he called on protesters “to crush” policemen after alleged news that they were targeting females.

Mr. Al Tareef said Bahrain has entered a new era that demanded a united front from everyone in the community.

“We regret those incidents, especially demonstrations and rallies in which children are being used, and we hope that all parties concerned take action against it.

“Policemen are here to serve the country and to enforce law and order.

“Attacking them means the peaceful and harmonious image Bahrain has maintained throughout the years is in danger.”

He said the council would do its best to promote unity and seek future developments and reforms under the leadership’s wise directions.