The Saudi Ministry of Interior announced in an official statement the execution of three Saudi citizens in the Qassim region, after they were found guilty of committing serious terrorist crimes that threatened the Kingdom's security and stability. This announcement reaffirms the state's firm approach in confronting all those who attempt to tamper with the nation's resources or terrorize its citizens.
Details of the crimes and the names announced
According to a statement from the Ministry of Interior, the death sentences were carried out against Rayan bin Yousef bin Ibrahim Al-Dubaikhi , Mohammed bin Suleiman bin Mohammed Al-Thuwaini , and Abdul Rahman bin Ibrahim bin Ahmed Al-Ayiri . Security investigations revealed their involvement in a series of organized criminal activities, including:
- Joining and pledging allegiance to a foreign terrorist organization.
- Working on the manufacture and preparation of explosives for use in acts of sabotage.
- Possession of weapons and live ammunition with the intent to cause corruption and aggression.
- Financing terrorist operations and providing logistical and material support to extremist organizations.
- Harboring and concealing wanted individuals constitutes direct participation in disrupting the security of society.
The judicial process and effective justice
The Ministry explained that security forces apprehended the perpetrators, and ongoing investigations led to their indictment for the aforementioned crimes. They were referred to the competent court, which afforded them all judicial guarantees, and a ruling was issued confirming their guilt. Given the gravity and heinous nature of their actions, they were sentenced to death by way of discretionary punishment (ta'zir). The sentence was upheld by the Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court, and a royal decree was issued ordering its execution. The executions were carried out on Wednesday, 18 Rajab 1447 AH, corresponding to January 7, 2026.
The security context and the Kingdom's efforts in combating terrorism
This execution comes within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to eradicate the roots of terrorism and extremism. The Kingdom adopts a comprehensive security strategy based on a firm hand against anyone who dares to threaten the security of the nation, relying on the provisions of Islamic Sharia law, which safeguards the five necessities, foremost among them life and security.
These rulings serve as a strong deterrent message, confirming that security forces are vigilant against all terrorist plots, whether through joining foreign organizations or attempting to form sleeper cells within the country. The Kingdom consistently emphasizes that financing terrorism is no less dangerous than carrying it out, as it is the lifeblood that fuels destructive operations.
The importance of establishing security and its impact
Applying justice to these convicted individuals strengthens the security and stability the Kingdom enjoys, a cornerstone of its economic and social development and prosperity. Security experts affirm that the firm application of Sharia law against terrorists contributes to protecting society from deviant ideologies and thwarts attempts by external organizations to exploit individuals for subversive agendas.
The Ministry of Interior concluded its statement by emphasizing the keenness of the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to maintain security and achieve justice, while warning anyone who dares to commit such terrorist acts that the legal punishment will be their fate.
