MANAMA, Bahrain -- Supporters of Bahrain's Sunni rulers have protested against an international investigation into the Gulf kingdom's crackdown on months of Shiite-led demonstrations calling for greater rights.
Thousands of supporters rallied in the capital, Manama, Saturday, urging authorities to protect police and army officers who helped quell the anti-government unrest from being questioned by the panel.
Angry crowds chanted "No punishment for brave officers."
More than 30 people have been killed since February, when Bahrain's Shiite majority started protesting for greater freedoms from the ruling Sunni dynasty.
The Bahrain Commission of Inquiry started the probe in July with the consent of the ruling monarchy. Its findings are expected Oct. 30.
