Cablegate: Terrorist Cell Trial Continues

VZCZCXRO2831
PP RUEHDE RUEHDIR
DE RUEHMK #1052 3251731
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
P 211731Z NOV 07
FM AMEMBASSY MANAMA
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 7434
INFO RUEHZM/GULF COOPERATION COUNCIL COLLECTIVE PRIORITY
RHBVAKS/COMUSNAVCENT PRIORITY
RHMFIUU/HQ USCENTCOM MACDILL AFB FL PRIORITY

UNCLAS MANAMA 001052

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PGOV PTER KISL ASEC BA
SUBJECT: TERRORIST CELL TRIAL CONTINUES

REF: A. MANAMA 967
B. MANAMA 932
C. MANAMA 913
D. MANAMA 876
E. MANAMA 831
F. MANAMA 820
G. MANAMA 794
H. MANAMA 790

1.(U) The trial of five suspects charged under Bahrain's 2006 counter-terrorism law (reftels) resumed November 20 in Manama's High Criminal Court. The prosecution and defense presented opening arguments, and the court adjourned until December 12.

2.(U) Defense attorneys told media that the three defendants currently in custody (two are being tried in absentia) began a hunger strike on November 17 seeking release on bail. The judge denied the bail request on November 20, and the attorneys said their clients will continue their hunger strike.

3.(U) The defendants once again appeared in an open session of the court. Their families and supporters were present in the courtroom along with media. ********************************************* ******** Visit Embassy Manama's Classified Website: XXXXXXXXXXXX********************************************* ******** HENZEL

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