Doctors and nurses in Bahrain who treated wounded protesters during recent anti-government uprisings have appeared in court to face charges of attempting to overthrow the kingdom's rulers.

Twenty-three doctors and 24 nurses have been detained since March under martial law. Even though Bahrain lifted its emergency law last week, the professionals remain under detention.

While Monday's court appearance was closed, Western media reported that the professionals were formally charged, and they they will face another hearing June 13.

Their detention has drawn outrage from human rights groups internationally who say the medical personnel were carrying out their moral and professional duties to treat the injured.