LOC10:27
07:27 GMT
RIYADH, Nov 24 (KUNA) -- An official statement by the Interior Ministry
Thursday reported that a number of security check points, vehicles, and
personnel had come under fire in Al-Qatif by riot makers in several areas of
Ash-Sharqiyah region and in an accelerating manner since Monday.
A ministry official said the trouble makers are acting upon what he termed
"agendas of external parties," and that security forces handled the situation
with all possible restraint.
The shootings left two citizens dead, and six others were injured including
a woman and two security officers. There was also an exchange of fire at the
funeral procession of one of the victims. The attackers were firing from
narrow alleys and from positions within residential areas.
All necessary procedures had been taken in said residential areas and
streets to investigate the incidents, track down the attackers, and prevent
further harm to citizens and property, the statement said.
"As we report these incidents, we fully realize that the aim of the riot
makers is to serve the goals of their associates from other countries, in an
attempt to drag the public and the security personnel into confrontation," the
official stressed.
The statement reiterated a strong warning that all who date violate laws
and regulations shall 'face consequences', and that security forces at their
designated posts are fully authorized to deal with any situation that arises
in the manner they deem fitting to stop these criminal acts.
The ministry included the statement an appeal to the residents of Al-Qatif
to stand up to trouble makers to spare innocent lives and bystanders.(end)
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KUNA 241027 Nov 11NNNN