Saudi Arabia eliminated flogging as a form of punishment, according to a document from the kingdom's top court seen by Reuters Friday.
The decision will see the punishment replaced by imprisonment or fines.
"The decision is an extension of the human rights reforms introduced under the direction of King Salman and the direct supervision of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman," the document said.
Earlier Friday, reports emerged that imprisoned Saudi activist Abdullah al-Hamid had died in hospital in Riyadh, where he was being treated since early April after suffering a stroke and falling into a coma whilst still behind bars.
It is not yet known if the legal change is in any way linked to his death.
Agencies
Comments About This Article
Please fill the fields below.