The General Directorate of Prisons confirmed the issuance of a royal pardon for male and female prisoners, both Saudis and residents, in order to allow them to spend the holy month of Ramadan with their families. Dangerous criminals, who represent a threat to the country’s security, will not be released, he said.
Media spokesman for the directorate, Capt. Jiluwi Al-Khaamesi, explained that subcommittees in the Kingdom’s regions, which consist of qualified individuals from all relevant departments, began to study the files of prisoners to release those who are qualified immediately. The Directorate General of Prisons represents the main committee, he said, noting that the work of the subcommittees will end after all the eligible beneficiaries of the Royal pardon have been identified.
He pointed out that it is difficult to announce a specific number of the beneficiaries at this time until the final review of all the files of the prisoners are completed.
Brig. Saad Al-Otaibi, director of prisons in the Eastern Province, confirmed that the regional committee has been reviewing the files of prisoners in seven groups since the issuance of the royal amnesty almost two years ago on the occasion of the improvement of the health of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, and that nearly 589 inmates of different nationalities benefited.
He said the Directorate of Prisons in the region offers awareness, education and treatment programs to inmates during their time in prison. He also confirmed that such amnesty orders for prisoners are not a strange practice from dignified governments, as these decisions aim to serve the interest of the released prisoner and allow them to start a new life.
“Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah always remembers the prisoners, and does not forget their separation from their families,” he added.
Beneficiaries of royal Ramadan pardon being shortlisted
