Police in Bahrain have foiled a plan to cause large-scale death and destruction in the kingdom, with the discovery of several bomb-making factories, said a senior public security official.

The police have also seized explosives and explosive materials, added Public Security chief Major General Tariq Al Hassan.

"This is a significant breakthrough since it indicates a new level of terrorist activity in Bahrain," he told a Press conference at the Interior Ministry Officers' Club, Gudaibiya.

"Five tonnes of materials used in making bombs and 110 litres of chemicals have been seized," he said. "The explosives were designed to cause severe injury, a high death toll, serious destruction to property and instil fear in the minds of the people."

He said there are indications that the terrorists were not working alone and that they received advanced training and logistical support.

"We have identified three suspects who are now on the run. It is only a matter of time before they are arrested. Someone knows where these men are," he said. "We need that person to come forward now.

"Due to the sensitivity of the investigations and the dangerous nature of the confiscated materials, we have so far been unable to call for the public's assistance in the case," he said.

"Unfortunately, we are still limited in the amount of information we are able to release."

Maj Gen Al Hassan said police raided several locations and confiscated highly-explosive materials used for bomb-making.

"Police received a tip about several individuals who were meeting to plan and manufacture highly-explosive bombs," he said. "The locations we were tipped off included residential areas of Salmabad and Hamad Town."

He said the locations were investigated, the tip was found to be credible and a warrant was obtained from the Public Prosecutor.

He said all dangerous materials have been stored in a safe place away from residential areas.

Meanwhile, a presentation during the Press conference highlighted that the explosives were made in a well-equipped factory meant to manufacture highly-explosive materials and were found in Salmabad. The confiscated materials included two types of dangerous explosives which, if used, could result in massive destruction, deaths and damage.

"Police seized four ready-to-use bombs that contained homemade explosives. These bombs had iron pellets, considered very dangerous since during explosions they can cause serious injuries, deaths and severe destruction. Pipes used in making bombs were also seized as well as electronic and mechanical tools used in the manufacturing process."

He said the confiscated items included gas cylinders similar to the ones used in previous terror operations in various locations.

Maj Gen Al Hassan urged people to be alert and aware and reminded property owners to obtain proper identities from their tenants. – TradeArabia News Service