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BBC News Online: World: Middle East


Saturday, 22 April, 2000, 16:46 GMT 17:46 UK

Saudi boys risk flogging


public execution in 1996
Teenage boys in Saudi Arabia who pester schoolgirls face public floggings and possible prison terms.

The daily Al-Eqtissadiah reported that boys loitering outside schools in the holy city of Medina would be punished.

Following complaints from schoolgirls and parents, Medina's governor, Prince Megren, set up a committee to stop what the newspaper called immoral behaviour.

"The committee will impose strict and immediate punishments on violators, including public lashing on the spot where the offence occurred, and both lashing and imprisonment for repeat offenders," said the paper.

Rights violations alleged

London-based Amnesty International last month accused Saudi Arabia of "gross and systematic" human rights violations, charges that have been rejected by Saudi officials.

Crown Prince Abdullah
The Gulf state imposes strict Sharia punishments, including death by beheading for murderers, rapists and drug smugglers, and amputation for theft.

An information ministry official accused Amnesty of trying to tarnish the image of Islam.

"They don't want to understand the purpose of punishments laid down by Islam," he said.

"The enemies of this country are on the look-out for a chance to spread their venom and to stir up ill-will, but we must remain vigilant in the face of these efforts."

The kingdom has said it is ready for a special rapporteur to visit to check on the independence of its judicial system.


Related to this story:
Analysis: Saudi rough justice (28 Mar 00 | Middle East)
Saudi Arabia 'buys silence' on abuse (28 Mar 00 | Middle East)
Saudi Arabia denies rights abuses (31 Mar 00 | Middle East)


Internet links: Saudi Embassy in Washington | UN Human Rights Commission | Amnesty International |
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