Protester in Bahrain dies after arrest

The Associated Press

MANAMA, Bahrain — Bahrain authorities say a detainee has died after being taken into custody during clashes between security forces and Shiite-led protesters.

Bahraini anti-government protesters carry a box of prepared Molotov cocktails during clashes with riot police Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, in the eastern village of Ma'ameer, Bahrain. Some elements within the opposition began Tuesday to step up their actions against police, including using more Molotovs, as clashes erupted in villages nationwide. (AP Photo/Hasan Jamali)

Bahraini anti-government protesters, some carrying Molotov cocktails, clash with riot police Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, in the eastern village of Ma'ameer, Bahrain. Clashes erupted as residents began a procession to mark the third day after the death of Yaseen al-Asfoor, 14, whose death the opposition blames on tear gas inhalation. (AP Photo/Hasan Jamali)

Riot police approach Bahraini anti-government protesters during clashes Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, in the eastern village of Ma'ameer, Bahrain. Clashes erupted as residents began a procession to mark the third day after the death of Yaseen al-Asfoor, 14, whose death the opposition blames on tear gas inhalation. (AP Photo/Hasan Jamali)

A Bahraini anti-government protester gestures in front of a row of riot police Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, in Manama, Bahrain. Security forces in Bahrain have fired tear gas and stun grenade after opposition groups staged a rare march into the center of the capital Manama. (AP Photo/Hasan Jamali)

Election 2012: Across the nation

• After bitter debate, Romney and Santorum eye Mich.
• FACT CHECK: Errant claims on auto bailout, taxes
• Notable moments from GOP debate in Arizona
• FACT CHECK: Errant claims on auto bailout, taxes
• GOP candidates in 20th debate
• Interactive: Know the candidates

More Nation & World stories »

• Texas torture victim calls survival 'miracle'
• 2 charged in death of Ala girl forced to run
• KBR ex-CEO to be sentenced Thurs. in bribery case
• Farmers furious after Iraq stops buying US rice

Thursday's statement by the Interior Ministry says public prosecutors are investigating the death. About 40 people have died in nearly a year of nonstop unrest between Bahrain's Sunni monarchy and the island kingdom's majority Shiites seeking a greater voice in government and security affairs.

The brief statement gave no further details on the death, but said the detainee was hospitalized and accused of "vandalism" during widespread demonstrations on Wednesday.

Bahrain is home to the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet.

___

January 26, 2012 12:41 AM EST

Copyright 2012, The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.