Execution of a drug dealer in Jazan – Ministry of Interior statement
The Saudi Ministry of Interior issued an official statement today regarding the execution of a convicted drug dealer in the Jazan region. This action is part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and protect society from the dangers of drugs. The execution followed the dealer's conviction for trafficking hashish for the second time, reflecting the firm application of the law against repeat offenders.
Details of the crime and execution of the sentence
The Ministry explained in its statement that the perpetrator, named Jaber bin Yahya bin Hussein Al-Maliki (a Saudi national), had attempted to distribute hashish for the second time. Thanks to vigilant security measures, the competent authorities were able to apprehend him, and the investigations resulted in his indictment for the crime. After his referral to the competent court, a ruling was issued confirming the charges against him and sentencing him to death by way of discretionary punishment.
The verdict became final after being appealed and upheld by the Supreme Court, and a royal decree was issued to enforce the legally mandated punishment. The death penalty was carried out on the perpetrator on Saturday, 28 Rajab 1447 AH, corresponding to January 17, 2026, in the Jazan region.
Legal and Sharia reference
The ruling was based on Islamic law texts that prohibit spreading corruption on earth, citing the verse: "The punishment of those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger and strive to spread corruption on earth is that they should be killed..." (Quran 5:33). The death penalty is a discretionary punishment in drug-related cases, particularly for dealers, smugglers, or repeat offenders, serving as a deterrent to protect the five necessities guaranteed by Islamic law, foremost among them the preservation of life and intellect.
The War on Drugs: A Resolute National Strategy
This announcement comes within the context of the comprehensive security campaign launched by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia against drug traffickers and smugglers, popularly and in the media known as the "War on Drugs." Security and legislative authorities in the Kingdom view drug crimes as a direct threat to national security and social cohesion, as these poisons particularly target young people, thus necessitating severe and uncompromising penalties.
Litigation safeguards and community protection
This execution underscores the transparency and integrity of the judicial process in the Kingdom, where the accused undergoes a series of litigation stages (primary, appellate, and Supreme Court) to ensure justice before the sentence is carried out. The Ministry of Interior concluded its statement by emphasizing the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' government's commitment to maintaining security and achieving justice, while simultaneously warning anyone contemplating such criminal acts that they will face the inevitable legal punishment.
