Bahrain has defended a judicial decision to sentence opposition activist Nabeel Rajab to three years behind bars. He had incited terrorism and planned to cripple the nation's economy. Minister of State for Information Affairs Sameera Rajab said the ruling was legitimate and the action of police when arresting him was according to the law.

She said evidence clearly showed Mr Rajab had incited violence and planned to rally in the capital to cripple the economy.

The Lower Criminal Court convicted Mr Rajab in three different cases on Thursday for taking part in an illegal gathering in Manama, calling for an unauthorised rally and inciting attacks on security forces.

He was also accused of delivering a speech urging people to stage a march, confront authorities and use violence against the security forces even if it killed them.

"These acts of incitement and direct participation have compromised public order and the safety of citizens through the use of petrol bombs, along with other improvised weapons, against public and private property; as well as assault against police officers, leaving a number of them injured," the minister said.

"These acts have had a direct negative impact on economic and commercial activity in areas of the capital which have prompted proprietors and business owners to request intervention of the Interior Ministry to protect their interests and immediate safety," Ms Rajab said at a Press conference at the Premier's Court in Manama.