The first batch of compensation settlements, amounting to more than $2.6 million, will be paid in accordance with royal directives to the families of 17 people who died during Bahrain's unrest.

The move comes on the recommendation of the National Commission concerned with implementation of Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry recommendations and is within the scope of the civil settlement initiative.

Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa presented the findings of the Civil Settlement Office on death cases during yesterday's Cabinet session and said the office had resolved to enter into a settlement exceeding 17 death cases, as a first phase.

The compensations were assessed on the basis of civil court precedents to reach fair settlements.

The Cabinet directed the office to co-ordinate with departments concerned to review the remaining cases on priority, without prejudice to the right of the injured who do not accept the proposed settlement, to resort to civil courts, and without excluding any criminal liability.

It reaffirmed assiduity in taking all action necessary to support the families of the deceased citizens and minimise damage to all concerned. – TradeArabia News Service