Saudi Arabia Executes Over 100 Foreigners In 2024, 10 Nigerians Among Victims

Saudi Arabia has executed 101 foreigners this year, marking a record-breaking surge in the use of capital punishment that rights groups have condemned as excessive. Among those executed were 10 Nigerians, as reported by the official Saudi Press Agency and human rights organizations.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the latest execution occurred in Najran, involving a Yemeni national convicted of drug smuggling.

The European-Saudi Organisation for Human Rights (ESOHR) highlighted the unprecedented nature of the figures, noting that this is the first time Saudi Arabia has executed over 100 foreigners in a single year.

By comparison, 34 foreigners were executed in both 2022 and 2023.

Amnesty International and ESOHR criticized Saudi Arabia’s judicial process, citing discriminatory practices that disadvantage foreign defendants. Many are denied access to court documents and face violations throughout their trials, often becoming scapegoats for major drug dealers.

The surge follows the kingdom’s decision in 2022 to end a moratorium on executions for drug-related offenses. Of the 92 drug-related executions this year, 69 were foreigners, representing a troubling trend.

Saudi Arabia’s reliance on the death penalty remains a contentious issue globally, with critics arguing it undermines Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s claims of reform.

Despite efforts to soften its global image and attract international investors, the kingdom has consistently ranked among the top three nations for executions, alongside China and Iran.

Saudi Arabia Executes Over 100 Foreigners In 2024, 10 Nigerians Among Victim

While official statements rarely disclose the method of execution, Saudi Arabia is widely known for using beheadings.

These actions have sparked outrage, as seen in global protests, including one by Amnesty International in the Netherlands against Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Activists urge the international community to hold Saudi Arabia accountable for its alarming execution record.

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