After Nearly 8 Years of Arbitrary Detention… Naif Al-Sahafi Remains Unjustly Behind Bars in Saudi Arabia

Since September 2017, Saudi authorities have continued to detain Naif Al-Sahafi, as part of the infamous September 2017 crackdown, which targeted a wide range of intellectuals, preachers, and activists across the Kingdom.

Throughout nearly eight years of arbitrary detention, Naif Al-Sahafi has suffered grave human rights violations, starting with his enforced disappearance and cutting off communication with his family for extended periods. He was later subjected to an unfair and secret trial, where he was deprived of his basic legal rights, including the right to appoint a lawyer for his defense.

At the conclusion of this unjust trial, the Specialized Criminal Court handed down a harsh 10-year prison sentence — a clear reflection of the Saudi regime’s ongoing policy of repression against independent and free voices.

Sanad Human Rights Organization strongly condemns the continued detention of Naif Al-Sahafi and calls on the Saudi authorities to release him immediately and unconditionally, along with all prisoners of conscience detained solely for peacefully expressing their opinions.

Sanad also urges the international community and human rights organizations to shoulder their responsibilities in pressuring the Saudi regime to end its ongoing violations, respect human rights, ensure the safety of all detainees, and reaffirm that freedom of expression is a fundamental right that cannot be confiscated under any pretext.