The Eighth Anniversary of the Arrest of Manawar Al-Noub: Ongoing Violations and Suffering Behind Bars

This week marks the eighth anniversary of the arrest of Saudi preacher Manawar al-Noub al-Abdali, who was detained by Saudi authorities in September 2017 for criticizing the mass arrests carried out that year, which targeted dozens of academics, intellectuals, and opinion-holders.

Al-Noub remains behind bars to this day, as Saudi authorities continue to detain no fewer than 32 individuals from the September 2017 crackdown documented by SANAD Human Rights Organization, with estimates suggesting there are even more cases yet to be documented.

During his detention, al-Noub has endured severe violations, including arbitrary arrest, torture, and ill-treatment inside prison. SANAD has not received any information regarding a trial being held for him since his arrest.

SANAD reiterates its call on Saudi authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Manawar al-Noub al-Abdali and all prisoners of conscience, and to uphold their human rights and humanitarian obligations.