Gulf group urges Oman to free detained activists
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}A Gulf rights group is calling on Oman to free over 30 people including writers and bloggers arrested during crackdowns on protests and pro-reform campaigns in the tightly run Arabian peninsula nation.
The Gulf Center for Human Rights says 22 people were taken into custody Monday during a demonstration to demand the release of at least nine activists detained this month.
The group's statement Tuesday says those in custody include poets, writers and social media activists.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Oman has been hit this month by strikes in its oil industry. Last year, protests inspired by the Arab Spring called for a greater political openness.
In response, Oman's ruler Sultan Qaboos gave more powers to a council which until then had been advisory.