ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Lt. Gen. (r) Bilal Akbar, said on Wednesday 49 Pakistani prisoners had been released from Saudi jails since the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan that began on April 14 this year.
Thanking Pakistani donors, Akbar said four more cases of “Haq e Khas” had been resolved, referring to money paid in compensation on behalf of the prisoners.
“49 total released since beginning of Ramadan. 53 still unresolved,” he said in a tweet.
4 more cases of ‘Haq e Khas’ resolved and released. Thanks to Pakistani donors. 49 total released since beginning of Ramadan. 53 still unresolved !
— bilal akbar (@bilalakbar73) June 8, 2021
During Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit to Saudi Arabia in May, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed an agreement on the transfer of convicted prisoners. Last month, Pakistani Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid told reporters 1,100 Pakistani prisoners were currently in Saudi jails.
In 2019, during a visit to Pakistan, Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman promised to release 2,107 Pakistani prisoners from Saudi jails. After the announcement, according to Pakistani officials, more than 1,200 Pakistani were released.
