Three Nigerians Released from Saudi Arabia Detention Following Diplomatic Engagements
Three Nigerian women who had been arrested and prosecuted in Saudi Arabia have been released, as announced by the Acting Spokesperson of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Sunday. Their release stems from extensive diplomatic negotiations between the Nigerian government and Saudi authorities.
The individuals, identified as Hadiza Abba, Fatima Malah, and Fatima Gamboi, were detained on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Aziz International Airport in Madinah on charges related to the alleged possession of a substance believed to be cocaine while on pilgrimage.
This trio was initially arrested in connection with two other Nigerian nationals who were discovered with a significant quantity of cocaine—80 capsules weighing 900.28 grams and 70 capsules weighing 789.5 grams, respectively. The police suspected that the women may have acted as accomplices and aided in the drug trafficking operation linked to the substances found on the earlier suspects.
The case of the three women’s arrest garnered considerable attention in both Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. Their eventual release followed months of diplomatic and legal efforts, which led to their acquittal and ultimate handover to the Nigerian Consulate-General in Jeddah. Upon their arrival, they were received by Ambassador Muazam, marking the conclusion of a challenging ordeal for the women and their families.
Join our Channel...