KOZHIKODE: The family of Abdul Rahim, a native of Kodampuzha in Feroke, Kozhikode, who is serving a life sentence in a Saudi prison, is worried about the delay in his release. Everyone is hoping that a final decision will be made in tomorrow's sitting.

It has been nine months since his death sentence was revoked. The Riyadh Criminal Court took the position that more studies were needed when the case was considered on the 2nd of last month. Although the Saudi family informed the court that Rahim had been pardoned after the blood money was paid, the prosecution's argument that Rahim had intentionally killed Anas al-Shahri is what led the court to the position that more studies were needed. The final verdict and release order, which ends the public rights procedures, are now to be made. If the release order is issued, the Supreme Court, the Governorate, and the Ministry of Interior must approve it. The release will take place after that.

Jailed in 2006, paid 34 crore

Rahim was sentenced to death in 2006 in the case of the death of his sponsor's disabled son Anas al-Shahri. After years of legal battles, the family of the deceased Anas al-Shahri finally informed the court in writing that they would accept a blood money payment of 1.5 crore riyals (Rs. 34 crore) and pardoned Rahim. Rahim's death sentence was cancelled by the Riyadh Criminal Court on June 2, 2024, after the 34 crore collected from all over Kerala was handed over. The Riyadh Rahim Legal Aid Committee has applied to the Saudi Governorate to complete the procedures related to the release order quickly.

Even if the proceedings are prolonged, it is certain that he will not be punished again. It is hoped that a release order will be issued in the next sitting.

- Nasir,

Rahim's brother