The detention without trial of suspected political opponents is cause for grave concern in Saudi Arabia. There appears to be a clear pattern of suspected political opponents being arrested without warrant and held for long periods without trial – sometimes for over two years. During the first few days or weeks detainees are usually in solitary confinement, routinely tortured or ill-treated and denied access to family or legal counsel Existing legislation regulating arrest and detention procedures do not appear to be strictly enforced as regards political detainees.
