JEDDAH: To mark the return of Crown Prince Sultan, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah on Friday ordered the release of some prisoners held for public rights who do not pose any danger to public security.
Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior Prince Naif, who made the announcement, said the royal pardon would cover those who were detained or sentenced to jail for petty crimes and violations.
“It will also benefit those being held for not paying public rights after paying private rights,” said Prince Naif.
In other words, prisoners who have already reconciled their punitive obligations to crime victims or their next of kin (such as compensation for damages) would have their punishments from the state ended. This category does not include violent offenders or those arrested for “major crimes.” The number of prisoners released under this amnesty was not reported, but Prince Naif urged those who have won pardon to correct their way of life and become good citizens.
Meanwhile, Prince Naif invited citizens to attend a grand celebration to be held in Riyadh on Sunday to mark the return of Prince Sultan. The ceremony will be held at Prince Faisal bin Fahd Olympic Stadium, said Maj. Gen. Saleh Al-Malik, acting director of public relations at the Interior Ministry, adding that the event would start at 7:30 p.m. He said the stadium would be open to receive the public from 4 p.m.
Prince Naif said on Thursday that the return of Prince Sultan to homeland with complete health is the happiest moment for the Kingdom and its people. He described Sultan as the right-hand man of King Abdullah.
Deputy Interior Minister Prince Ahmed said he was overjoyed by the crown prince’s return.
“I was looking forward to Prince Sultan’s arrival like a barren desert desires for rain,” he said. “All citizens in this country are happy over the return of this great personality, who is strongly committed to the nation and its development, and who loves everybody.”
Prince Ahmed praised Prince Sultan’s generosity. “He has a generous hand, an open heart, and is optimistic in his approach,” he said. “Everybody wants to follow in his footsteps.”
Health Minister Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah congratulated King Abdullah on the return of Prince Sultan after a successful medical trip. “On behalf of all Health Ministry staff I would like to express our happiness on this occasion.”
