Death row inmates desperate to escape execution in Saudi Arabia call the BBC
Summary
Several Ethiopian prisoners on death row in Saudi Arabia have contacted the BBC to share their fears and stories. Many were convicted of drug smuggling amid concerns about unfair trials and lack of legal support. The number of Ethiopian executions has risen sharply in recent years, especially after conflict in their home region.Key Facts
- Ethiopian inmates on death row in Saudi Arabia have reached out to the BBC’s Tigrinya service to tell their stories.
- Habtom, one prisoner, has been held in a southern Saudi city prison for over three years and was convicted of smuggling hashish.
- About 200 Ethiopian prisoners may be awaiting execution for drug-related offenses in Saudi Arabia.
- In the first seven months of this year, 17 Ethiopians have been executed in Saudi Arabia, the highest number among non-Saudis.
- Amnesty International reports that just two Ethiopians were executed two years ago, but 35 were executed in 2025.
- Human rights groups say trials often lack proper legal representation, fair process, and transparent information for prisoners and their families.
- Amnesty and Human Rights Watch describe issues like forced confessions, inadequate translation, and no real chance to appeal without a lawyer.
- Saudi authorities have not responded to questions about the fairness of the judicial process in these cases.
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