Bahrain Mirror (Exclusive): Bahraini security forces clashed on Friday (August 14, 2015) with protesters as they attempted to reach the LouLoua (Pearl) Roundabout, the cradle of popular widespread protests that Bahrain witnessed in 2011, marking the kingdom's Independence Day.

A number of demonstrators were injured after security forces fired shotgun pellets and tear gas canisters at protesters in the area surrounding the Pearl Roundabout, before police forces pursued the demonstrators and flooded residential areas with toxic tear gas.

The authorities stepped up security around the roundabout that has been closed since 2011 and protected by national guard forces.

The main opposition group. Al-Wefaq National Islamic Society, stated that "Independence Day reminds us of the urgent need to establish a modern democratic state that is based on agreement and partnership, and to allow the people to be the source of all powers.

Thousands of Bahrainis took to the streets of Diraz following Friday prayers to celebrate this occasion, which the authorities disregard, and call for putting an end to the ruling Al Khalifa family's monopoly of power.

The Bahraini authorities also set up security checkpoints on main roads leading to the capital, Manama.

Arabic Issue