Saudis name 26 men linked to bombings

Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has named 23 Saudis, two Moroccans and a Yemeni wanted in connection with terrorist attacks in the…

Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has named 23 Saudis, two Moroccans and a Yemeni wanted in connection with terrorist attacks in the kingdom. It has also published photographs of the men in the media, and offered cash for information leading to their arrest.

The interior ministry called upon the suspects to surrender. "Those who are convicted [of terrorist offences will be punished in accordance with the Shariah [Islamic law]." This could mean the death penalty.

The ministry has posted a reward of $1.87 million for information preventing an attack, $1.33 million for information leading to the arrest of a group of suspects and $266,000 for one suspect. Anyone assisting the wanted men would face "harsh punishment".

These measures follow fresh warnings from the US embassy of possible terrorist attacks, and the restriction of its personnel to its heavily-guarded diplomatic compound in the capital. Security at other compounds housing foreigners has also been reinforced.

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The Saudis launched a nation-wide campaign last May following an attack on three Western compounds in Riyadh which killed 35, including nine bombers. Last month 18 people were killed and 120 wounded in a bombing at a compound housing Arab professionals.

Since the clamp-down commenced more than 600 people are reported to have been arrested, including a number of clerics accused of inciting anti-US and anti-Saudi activities.

Last week Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz, the Defence Minister, announced an overhaul of the Saudi educational system which is blamed for creating hostility towards Westerners.

Michael Jansen

Michael Jansen

Michael Jansen contributes news from and analysis of the Middle East to The Irish Times