Saudi wraps up anti-corruption campaign releasing 90 princes, top officials

RIYADH, Jan. 28 — Saudi Arabia announced on Wednesday the end of its anti-corruption campaign that led to the arrest of princes and top officials, Al Arabiya local news reported.

The announcement was made through a government official’s Twitter account, saying the detainees who refused “financial settlements” were being referred to the Public Prosecution. Most detainees agreed to settlements which cover cash, real estate and other assets, the tweet said.

As many as 90 people have been released with charges dropped, while 95 are still detained pending trial, it added.During the 80-day corruption probe starting in the last quarter of 2017, the kingdom’s newly-formed Supreme Anti-Corruption Committee summoned 350 suspects.

The Public Prosecution said all detainees have access to legal representation, while those released are free to move without restrictions.The probe was one of the many steps Saudi Arabia has taken in its economic reforms to be fully prepared for the post-oil era. – XINHUA