Saudi Arabia has executed over 50 arrests related to sex work and begging, following the establishment of a new security unit. The initiative primarily targets non-Saudis and addresses concerns over morality and societal dignity. Critics warn about potential arbitrary arrests due to vague law provisions governing these activities.
Saudi Arabia has conducted numerous arrests related to sex work, street begging, and human trafficking, soon after establishing a new agency dedicated to addressing these issues, the General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes. Thus far, over 50 arrests have been executed, predominantly targeting non-Saudi nationals. Notably, three foreigners were detained in Riyadh for alleged prostitution, while 14 Yemenis were arrested for exploiting children in begging.
In Jeddah, police apprehended five foreigners for engaging in immoral acts within a massage and relaxation establishment. Additionally, a man and two women were arrested in al-Qassim province on sex work charges. The interior ministry emphasized that the unit aims to combat crimes that infringe upon personal rights, violate fundamental freedoms per Sharia law, or damage individual dignity.
Sarah Leah Whitson, the executive director of Democracy for the Arab World Now (Dawn), cautioned that the ambiguous nature of the new unit’s mandate might result in arbitrary arrests. She stated, “The right way to police human trafficking or sex work is with clearly defined laws that narrowly proscribe conduct… foreigners and migrant workers deserve the same due process protections as Saudi citizens.”
Ali Shihabi, a commentator on Saudi affairs, noted that the new unit was a response to an increase in foreign nationals involved in sex work, attributed partially to eased visa access. He indicated that many women are arriving, remaining in hotels, and advertising sex services. Regarding street begging, Shihabi mentioned that authorities have been tackling this issue for several years.
Khaled al-Sulaiman, a Saudi columnist, highlighted the unit’s goal to ensure accountability for “crimes involving immoral and prostitution activities,” aligning with the nation’s religious and social identity. He asserted that those engaging in such activities should not expect to operate without facing consequences. Since Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman assumed power, there has been a noticeable reduction in the influence of religious police enforcing strict moral codes as part of broader social reforms encapsulated in Vision 2030.
In summary, Saudi Arabia’s establishment of a unit to combat sex work, begging, and human trafficking has led to significant arrests, predominantly involving non-Saudis. While the intent is to uphold societal dignity and rights, concerns have emerged regarding the potential for arbitrary enforcement. The discourse reflects ongoing tensions between cultural values, legal frameworks, and individual rights, particularly for foreign nationals in the kingdom.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
