(Al Jazeera English, Creative Commons)

The Interior Ministry statement issued regarding the man’s death said, “the investigation is ongoing but the death is being treated as homicide.”

According to witnesses, security forces used tear gas, birdshot, and stun grenades in a clash between police and protesters Friday, during which police also detained several of the protesters.

Public Security Chief Major General Tariq al Hassan stated:

“The government condemns all acts of violence and will ensure the perpetrators of this crime, whoever they may be, will be brought to justice.”

The clash comes in the midst of preparation for the Formula 1 Grand Prix race this Sunday. The race will continue as planned despite recent unrest, said government officials:

“The three-day Bahrain Grand Prix began today absolutely safely and without incident. Bahrain is a safe country and there is no reason for any Formula 1 team to have concerns about security.”

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