The Saudi Ministry of Interior issued an official statement today announcing the execution of three citizens by way of discretionary punishment (ta'zir), after they were found guilty of committing serious terrorist crimes that threatened national security and targeted the lives of security personnel. The executions were carried out in the Riyadh region on Sunday, 29 Rajab 1447 AH, corresponding to January 18, 2026.
Details of terrorist crimes and plots
The Ministry revealed in its statement that the perpetrators, Hussein bin Salem bin Mohammed Al-Amri, Saud bin Hilal bin Saud Al-Anzi, and Bassam Mohsen Maran Al-Subaie, committed criminal acts that threatened the sovereignty and security of the state. The most prominent charge against them was joining a terrorist organization outside the country, reflecting their connection to foreign agendas aimed at destabilizing the country.
Their crime was not limited to joining, but they were also involved in the field in planting and placing explosive devices in security vehicles, in a direct and systematic plan to carry out assassinations and killings among security men, in addition to providing shelter and logistical support to a number of terrorist elements wanted by security.
judicial and legal process
The Ministry of Interior confirmed that the arrest of the aforementioned individuals was the result of intensive security efforts and meticulous follow-up. The investigations led to their indictment and referral to the Specialized Criminal Court. After reviewing the case and ensuring all judicial guarantees were met, a ruling was issued confirming the charges against them and sentencing them to death by way of discretionary punishment due to the heinous nature of their crime and their corruption on earth.
The ruling became final after being upheld by the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court, and a royal decree was issued to enforce what was decided according to Sharia, reflecting the firmness of the Kingdom’s judicial system in dealing with terrorism cases.
The Kingdom's firm stance against terrorism
The execution of this sentence comes within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's steadfast policy of combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and drying up its sources. The Kingdom consistently emphasizes that targeting security personnel or terrorizing innocent civilians are among the gravest crimes, warranting the most severe legal penalties.
The statement cited the legal texts that prohibit corruption on earth. God Almighty said: “The punishment of those who wage war against God and His Messenger and strive to spread corruption on earth is that they should be killed or crucified, or have their hands and feet cut off on opposite sides, or be banished from the land.”.
The Ministry of Interior concluded its statement by affirming the keenness of the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to maintain security and achieve justice, while warning anyone who dares to tamper with the security of the homeland or engage in extremist currents that the deterrent legal punishment will be his inevitable fate.
