Saudi Arabia executed three Ethiopian nationals in the Asir region on 7 October 2026 after convicting them of jointly smuggling hashish into the kingdom.[1][2] The interior ministry named them as Seni Redi Aqous Qorzqor, Shanafi Tekay Anbayeh Barah and Mersu Negus Akalu Tele.[1][2]
The ministry said security authorities arrested the men, the competent court found the charge proved and sentenced them to death as a discretionary punishment, and the ruling became final after appeal and confirmation by the Supreme Court. A royal order then authorised the execution under Islamic law.[1][2]
The executions took place on Wednesday, 26 Rabi al-Thani 1448 AH, corresponding to 7 October 2026, in the Asir region.[1][2] The ministry said the sentences formed part of the kingdom’s efforts to protect citizens and residents from drugs and to impose the strictest penalties on traffickers and dealers.[1][2]
The statement gave no quantity of hashish, no place of arrest and no date for the arrests or the trial.[1][2]