Officials from the Investigation and Public Prosecution Commission have questioned the lieutenant colonel over the past two days to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting.

Sultan bin Zahim, head of the lawyers committee in Madinah, described the attack as deplorable. “According to a decision issued by the interior minister, the use of a gun to attack or threaten others is a major crime; the perpetrator deserves to be arrested,” said Zahim, adding that the officer will be brought in front of a military tribunal.

In a related development, informed sources at the Medical Center of the Royal Commission in Yanbu said the injured soldier is still receiving treatment, adding that his condition is improving.

Differences between the two security officers began about three months ago after the soldier slapped the lieutenant colonel in front of colleagues during a morning parade.

The soldier was then put in prison for three days. When the case was passed to the general court in Yanbu, the officer delivered a written note saying he had dropped all charges against the soldier.

However, a few days ago the officer shot the soldier outside his residence inside a security compound, injuring him in the hand and leg. He also used a stick to beat the soldier after shooting him thrice. He then called police for medical help.