Saudi Arabia Executes Two Bangladeshis Convicted of Sex in Mecca Mosque
Saudi Interior Ministry announced the execution of Nazrul Islam Abdul Basir and Siti Akhtar in the Makkah region
In Brief
- •Saudi Interior Ministry announced the execution of Nazrul Islam Abdul Basir and Siti Akhtar in the Makkah region
- •Both were convicted of having sex inside a mosque in Mecca and sentenced to death under Ta’zir, a discretionary Islamic punishment
- •The executions followed a court verdict that considered the offence’s gravity and violation of mosque sanctity
- •The Bangladesh Consulate General in Jeddah said it was not notified before the executions and has requested formal acknowledgement
- •The ministry did not disclose the mosque’s name or the arrest date of the pair
Why It Matters
The case underscores Saudi Arabia’s strict enforcement of Islamic law, particularly regarding sexual conduct in sacred spaces, and highlights the severe penalties that can be imposed. It also raises diplomatic concerns, as the Bangladesh consulate was not informed prior to the executions, potentially affecting bilateral relations and consular protocols between the two countries.
Key Details
- Executed Individuals
- Nazrul Islam Abdul Basir and Siti Akhtar
- Location
- Makkah region, Saudi Arabia
- Sentencing Basis
- Ta’zir (discretionary punishment) under Islamic law
- Court Verdict Date
- Executed on Wednesday, 2026-10-16 (exact verdict date not specified)
Context & Background
Saudi Arabia applies the death penalty for certain sexual offences, especially those committed in mosques, under its interpretation of Sharia law. The use of Ta’zir allows courts discretionary power to impose capital punishment for violations deemed severe.
Original Reporting & Sources
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