Bahrain Charges 20 With Abuse Of Protesters

Authorities in Bahrain say 20 members of the security forces have been charged for alleged abuse of protesters during unrest earlier this year.

The government said an investigation had shown that there have been "instances of excessive force and mistreatment of detainees" during the February-March protests and crackdowns.

The statement was issued two days ahead of a report by an inquiry panel that is probing alleged government misconduct during the crackdown on Shi'ite-led protesters calling for greater rights in the island nation.

Authorities say 24 people, including four policemen, were killed in a month of unrest against the kingdom's Sunni rulers.

The opposition puts the death toll at 30. Hundreds more were injured.

compiled from agency reports