A counterterrorism operation conducted by Bahrain's security authorities has resulted in the identification of a terrorist network and the arrest of 47 suspects. Security authorities confirmed that the arrests disrupted a number of sizable terrorist attacks planned for the near future. According to Bahrain News Agency, BNA, a range of high-grade explosives, bomb making materials and weapons were seized from several locations within populated residential areas. In addition to the materials seized, a bomb-making facility and an explosives laboratory were discovered. Among the seizures were homemade bombs and raw bomb-making materials, including C4, TATP (triacetone triperoxide), Urea Nitrate, and Nitro Cellulose. Ammunition and anti-personnel bomb molds were also seized, along with partially constructed armor-piercing explosive devices. The investigation and several surveillance operations revealed that as with previous terrorist incidents in 2015, the suspects arrested hold strong connections with terrorist organisations in Iran. Over the past six months, multiple seizures of explosives, homemade IED's , bomb-manufacturing equipment and caches of arms and ammunition have been directly linked to Iranian-backed extremists who intended to use the materials in terror attacks in Bahrain. The Ministry of Interior has reiterated that police will remain vigilant for any security threats and that no effort will be spared in protecting the Kingdom's citizens. The Ministry of Interior also emphasised that Iranian-sponsored violence which seeks to harm progress and dialogue will not deter the Kingdom's pursuit of long-term political and economic development.
