Bahrain gags media coverage of terror probe

Bahrain's public prosecutor has banned media from reporting on alleged terror networks uncovered and opposition members detained in an ongoing crackdown ahead of October parliament elections.

The crackdown follows a series of violent Shiite-led protests accusing the government of discrimination.

Prosecutor Ali al-Buainain's statement says all print, radio, TV, Internet and other media may not "publish or broadcast anything related to" detained activists Abdul Jalil Al Sengace and others held since mid-August.

Friday's announcement was published in all Bahraini newspapers.

It says the investigations "require secrecy in order to uncover the truth and preserve public order" and warns offenders could face a year's imprisonment under the law.