RIYADH, 1 January 2005 — Riyadh Governor Prince Salman said terrorist acts committed by some Muslims have greatly damaged the image of Islam that does not condone aggression.
“It is unfortunate that because of these despicable crimes, every Muslim now is a suspect. How can anyone claiming they serve Islam kill the innocent? These are acts of outlaws and should not be associated with Islam, even if those who claim responsibility for them are Muslims,” Prince Salman said.
He was talking after visiting members of the security forces receiving treatment in Riyadh hospitals following Wednesday bombings in the capital.
Prince Salman praised the security officers for the bravery they have shown in dealing with Wednesday’s incident as well as previous attacks telling them they have fulfilled their duty.
He called on the individuals who strayed from the right path to repent, saying the courts will decide the punishment for those found involved in the criminal acts. “No family member (of the deviant group) would ever be held responsible for the acts of others. They are honorable and decent citizens. I personally know some of them and continue to deal with them normally. We don’t hold any one responsible for the act of others.”
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior announced yesterday that no member of the security forces or civilians were killed in the two explosions that rocked the Saudi capital.
“All those who were injured in the two blasts have already left hospital with the exception of four cases who suffered medium injuries and their condition was stable. With the grace of the Almighty Allah no one was killed as a result of this criminal act,” an Interior Ministry spokesman was quoted by the Saudi Press Agency as saying.
Two terrorists in the ministry’s 26 most wanted list were killed in Wednesday’s raid on a terrorist hide-out shortly after two car bombs exploded in Riyadh.
