Saudi terror trials begin on Tuesday

Riyadh: Trials of suspected terrorists behind a wave of attacks and terror plots since 2003 will begin on Tuesday at the Security Court in the Riyadh Public Courts.

The judges will today begin examining the prosecution files on the terror cells whose suspected members have been detained since the first attack in 2003 and fix the hearing dates.

Saudi security authorities recently unveiled plans to prosecute hundreds of suspects detained on terror-related charges.

One of the first trials involves a cell allegedly responsible for attacks on three Riyadh housing compounds on May 12, 2003, killing 35 people, including nine of the assailants.

Prince Nayef Bin Abdul Aziz, the Minister of Interior, recently announced that the trials would begin on October 21. "The suspects would be transferred to the judiciary to give its verdict on them in accordance with what God has ordained to prevent sedition. We don't punish anybody except on the basis of a court verdict," he said.

Financial losses

Other trials proposed include that of suspects detained after suicide bombings or attempts until 2005.

At least 90 civilians, and 52 security men were killed and 507 people injured in the attacks. The attacks also caused financial losses of 1 billion Saudi riyals (Dh1 billion), according to government estimates.

The exact number of terror suspects who face trial is not yet known. The Interior Ministry recently said more than 700 terror suspects have been arrested, of which 520 were still in custody and the rest freed for want of evidence. Saudi King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz has approved the appointment of 10-12 judges to start the trial.

Meanwhile, Ali Nafeesa, the director of awareness and guidance at the Ministry of Interior, said those facing trial for suspected involvement in terror acts may not be infidels. "Those involved in bloodletting and blasts will be treated with special rules and provisions as per Sharia and there will not be any leniency toward them."