The Public Prosecution clarifies the definition of a protected witness in Saudi Arabia

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Public Prosecution: Who is the witness covered by protection in the Saudi system?

The Public Prosecution in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia clarified, in an important awareness statement, the precise legal concept of a "protected witness," as part of its ongoing efforts to promote legal and rights awareness among members of society and to ensure that justice is served according to the highest standards.

Definition of a protected witness

The Public Prosecution clarified that a witness under protection is any person whom the judiciary or the Public Prosecution decides to provide with necessary protection, based on evidence or indications suggesting a real danger to their life, physical safety, or property. This protection is not limited to the witness alone, but extends to their spouse, relatives, and any other person who may be threatened as a result of the witness providing information or testifying in a case.

Legal context and judicial reforms

This clarification comes as part of the legislative and judicial reforms underway in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on developing the justice system and protecting human rights. Witness and whistleblower protection programs are a cornerstone of modern criminal justice systems, aiming to encourage individuals to cooperate with security and judicial authorities without fear of reprisal or intimidation.

The importance and impact of witness protection

Witness protection measures are of paramount importance on several levels:

Combating organized crime and corruption: Witnesses are often hesitant to provide information in sensitive cases such as corruption or major crimes for fear of repercussions. Providing legal and physical protection breaks down this barrier of fear and contributes to uncovering the truth.
Achieving prompt justice: Ensuring the safety of the witness means ensuring that the correct information reaches the court, which helps judges to issue fair judgments based on clear and complete evidence.
Strengthening confidence in the judicial system: When society senses the state’s seriousness in protecting those who cooperate with it, the confidence of citizens and residents in the judicial and security apparatus increases.

Protection measures followed

The protective measures that the competent authorities may take include several levels, ranging from concealing the witness's identity in case files and using modern technologies to take statements remotely without the need for physical presence that could reveal their identity, to providing heightened security in cases that warrant it. These measures underscore the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of justice and preserving the dignity and safety of all those who contribute to the administration of justice.