The Bureau of Investigation and Prosecution on Friday released two members of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice (Haia) who had been detained in connection with a car chase that caused an accident in which two brothers were killed on Saudi National Day last year.

The members, who were released on Friday, were the drivers of the two Haia cars involved in chasing and crashing into the brothers’ car which resulted in the duo falling off a bridge. The suspects’ lawyer Muhammad Al-Zamel confirmed the release but would not reveal details.

Informed sources said the release was based on the Penal Procedure Law that states that the prosecution can release suspects if it is sure that the suspects will be available any time and that their release will not have any impact on the ongoing investigation.

Article 14 of the law stipulates that detention (before trial) should be for a maximum of five days, but the Bureau of Investigation’s branch head can extend the period for a period not exceeding 40 days from the date of arrest.