(Raxanreeb Online) – Saudi authorities have carried out the execution of a Somali national today after he was convicted of drug smuggling into the kingdom.

The individual was among a group of 45 Somali prisoners previously sentenced to death on similar charges. His execution has sparked deep concern among Somali officials, particularly as the remaining 44 prisoners still face the same fate.

Somalia’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Aways Haji Yusuf, expressed his shock at the execution, stating that diplomatic efforts are underway to engage with Saudi authorities in hopes of securing clemency for those still on death row.

Saudi Arabia enforces strict anti-drug laws, with capital punishment applied in cases of drug trafficking, a policy that has been carried out on numerous occasions in the past.