Dr. Habib bin Maala Al-Mutairi: Nine Years Behind Bars Since His Arrest in September 2017

These days mark the ninth anniversary of the arrest of academic and professor of literary criticism at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Dr. Habib bin Maala Al-Mutairi, who Saudi authorities have continued to detain since September 2017.

Al-Mutairi was arrested as part of the September 2017 crackdown targeting a number of academics, intellectuals, and influential figures. Security forces raided his home and confiscated several of his books and personal computer before transferring him to Al-Ha’ir Prison and placing him in solitary confinement.

According to available information, during his detention he was denied contact with his family and access to a lawyer. Authorities also prevented him from leaving prison to attend his father’s funeral and mourning ceremonies following his death.

SANAD Human Rights Organization calls on Saudi authorities to immediately and urgently release Dr. Habib Al-Mutairi and provide him with appropriate compensation for his years of detention and the resulting harm.