Saudi Interior Ministry: Man Executed for Ties with Terrorist Cell

The Saudi Interior Ministry logo. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Saudi Interior Ministry logo. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
TT
20

Saudi Interior Ministry: Man Executed for Ties with Terrorist Cell

The Saudi Interior Ministry logo. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Saudi Interior Ministry logo. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

The Saudi Interior Ministry announced on Monday that a man was executed in the Eastern Province for his ties with a terrorist cell, reported the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

It identified the man as Saudi national Mustafa al-Sharfa. He was accused of smuggling weapons into the Kingdom and being involved with a terrorist cell with the aim of destabilizing the country.

The cell plotted to attack and kill security forces and stir chaos and riots, it added.

Security forces arrested Sharfa and he was charged following investigations. He was referred to the relevant criminal court that sentenced him to death.

He was executed on Monday in the city of al-Dammam.

The Interior Ministry underscored the keenness of the government to consolidate security and achieve justice throughout the Kingdom. It will not waver in deterring any side that deigns to undermine its security and stability and its citizens and residents.



Saudi Council of Senior Scholars: Performing Hajj without a Permit Is a Sin

Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)
Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)
TT
20

Saudi Council of Senior Scholars: Performing Hajj without a Permit Is a Sin

Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)
Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)

Saudi Arabia’s Council of Senior Scholars stressed on Sunday the need to obtain a permit for anyone wishing to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.

In a statement, it warned that performing the pilgrimage without the permit “is a sin” and would “lead to several dangers and impact the safety and health of pilgrims and the services provided.”

Meanwhile, the Holy Makkah Municipality said 22,000 of its members and members of other entities are dedicating their services and capabilities to implement this year’s Hajj season plan.

The municipality has provided 28 centers in the holy sites to offer the best services to the pilgrims.

In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, municipality spokesman Osama al-Zeitouni said it has backed up its efforts with several electronic platforms and apps that would help boost the efficiency of services and speed up procedures.

It has also dedicated a large fleet of equipment and human cadres and set up integrated plans and work programs that cover the entirety of the Hajj, he added.

The municipality's efforts include and are not limited to training members on crisis, disaster and crowd management. Dedicated teams will be in place to handle emergencies caused by rain or fires, as well as handling waste and garbage, providing protection against insects and regularly disinfecting camps.

The municipality has dedicated a team to monitor the markets, grocery stores and restaurants to ensure the safety of food provided.