Security for every citizen was pledged last night as His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa paid a surprise inspection visit to the Bahrain City Centre.

HRH the Premier stressed the government's resolve to always reach out to people, gauge their needs and ensure their security and welfare.

The visit by HRH the Premier is in line with the government's drive to provide all facilities and streamline procedures to boost the trade sector, hence the growing convergence of visitors and shoppers from Bahrain and abroad on mega shopping centres, Bahrain News Agency said.

HRH the Premier also inspected the polling centre at the City Centre and was briefed by Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa on the preparations for today's parliamentary by-elections.

Information Affairs Authority president Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa updated HRH the Premier on preparations to ensure media coverage of the elections.

HRH the Premier praised officials for ensuring that the elections will project Bahrain's political and democratic strides to the world in the prosperous era of His Majesty King Hamad.

HRH the Premier paid tribute to the Bahraini people for their allegiance to the leadership and their firm commitment to national unity. He also toured the shopping centre and was briefed on its promotional and recreational services.

The Interior Ministry separately reiterated its commitment to self-restraint in assuming its national duties and ensuring the security of citizens.

HRH the Premier's visit came after security forces arrested saboteurs who stormed the top shopping mall at about 4pm, with the aim of creating chaos and terrorising visitors.

Gangs of thugs have also been arrested following a spate of rioting and acts of sabotage across Bahrain, causing massive traffic jams. Legal action will be taken against them, the ministry said.-TradeArabia News Service