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Saudi courts ordered to stop flogging for ‘tazir’ crimes

Judges in the kingdom can no longer prescribe flogging as a punishment for lesser crimes.
Cars drive past the Kingdom Centre Tower in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, January 30, 2018. REUTERS/Faisal Al Nasser - RC1B1C180720

Saudi Arabia will no longer use flogging as a punishment for certain crimes, according to a circular issued to the courts today. 

“Prison or fines or both will be some of the alternative sentences to replace flogging. Courts will hear and evaluate cases and make most sound decisions regarding each case,” the Justice Ministry said on Twitter. 

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