The report, based on the Ministry of Interior’s figures and visits conducted by the HRC, revealed the detainees are of 51 different nationalities. Eighty percent of the detainees were Saudi (3,734) while the rest (928) were foreigners.
The commission revealed that due to its authority it could pay regular and unarranged visits to prisons and follow up closely on the conditions of detainees and the status of their trial procedures.
The HRC confirmed in its report that it also reviews detainee rights, including their right to a fair trial.
According to the report, 501 were tried and jailed, 301 were tried but not jailed, 864 are on trial, 1,528 are being referred to the courts to undergo trial, 1,190 cases are being reviewed by the General Investigation and Prosecution Commission, while 278 are being prosecuted.
The commission confirmed there are another 120 people who are benefiting from the Prince Mohammad Bin Naif Advisory and Care Center’s programs in anticipation of their release.
The Human Rights Commission also indicated that it keeps records of all detainees so it can follow up on their cases, confirming that it liaises with the parties concerned to ensure detainees’ rights are safeguarded.
The HRC appreciated the directives of Crown Prince Naif, minister of interior, in reviewing the conditions of detainees, protecting their rights and providing the HRC with information during its visits to prisons or in writing.
The commission revealed in its report that it follows all trial procedures through its specialist team to ensure they comply with international and local regulations and standards, especially steps taken by judges to familiarize detainees with their rights, inform them of their right to put forward their replies personally or through a lawyer, and their right to appeal.
Meanwhile, the HRC team attending trials expressed relief over the use of technology in courtrooms, enabling the defendant to review the court clerk’s transcripts through a screen, allowing him to correct them should he wish.
The HRC report also revealed that all trial sessions are public in accordance with article 155 in the criminal procedures, which allows the attendance of family members and reporters.