Bandar Al-Aiban claimed that some inmates had been detained for a long time without trial, which had contributed to worsening their condition.
“I have discussed these matters with Maj. Gen. Ali Al-Harithy, director general of prisons, by telephone,” Al-Aiban said, stressing the need to reduce the number of people in the prison.
Al-Harithy informed Al-Aiban about his department’s plan to open four new wards at the prison. The department has already constructed the wards and is waiting to connect them to power. Al-Aiban urged the governorate, the prisons department and Saudi Electricity Company to be quicker in providing power to the new wards to solve the overcrowding problem.
Al-Aiban also heard the complaints of prisoners and set up a committee to discuss them with authorities concerned immediately. The HRC chief visited the Sakaka prison and its various facilities and checked its cleanliness. He also inspected the training center at the prison. He noted the complaints of prisoners including women and discussed them with officials. After visiting the various courts in Sakaka, Al-Aiban commended their efforts in settling disputes and protecting public and private rights.
The HRC chief discussed with judges and officials at the Bureau of Investigation and Prosecution on providing speedy justice and improving the treatment of prisoners and detainees. The visit also covered public hospitals and health centers in the province.
Al-Aiban visited Hudaitha, the largest land entry point in the Kingdom, and commended security officers for their efforts to prevent drug smuggling and trafficking.
