RIYADH – The Special Penal Court in Riyadh has sentenced a defendant to 18 years in prison from the date of detention, ban from travel abroad for the same period and SR20,000 fine. He was accused of joining and participating in banned demonstrations and processions, gathering on the main streets of Al-Qatif governorate, chanting slogans against the state, inciting people to come out and join the processions calling for sedition and organizing the participants. He carried out these acts despite knowing that they violated the regulations. He also collected donations in favor of rioters and fired at security men several times. He possessed a pistol and ammunition without a license with the intention of disturbing internal security. The Court decided to accuse the defendant and sentence him to 18 years in jail beginning on the date of his detention. He was also banned from travel outside the Kingdom for 18 years beginning on the date of completion of his prison term. The Public Prosecutor and the accused decided to object against the verdict. It was explained to them that objection to the verdict can be submitted within 30 days from the day of receiving the verdict document. If the period passes and none of them presents his objection, the case will be referred to the Special Penal Appeals Court to scrutinize the verdict without their objection. – SG/SPA
