Urgent Action outcome: “National security” trials end in life sentences

Oman sentenced six defendants to life imprisonment for “infringement of the country’s independence or unity or the sanctity of its territory” after grossly unfair trials. The charges were based on the six men’s online browsing habits in relation to Oman’s Musandam province and the Shuhuh tribe that lives there. Following the trials, credible allegations of torture emerged. However, the verdicts were summarily upheld by an appeals court. No further appeals are possible.

All the defendants appealed their sentences, but the court summarily rejected all six appeals on 29 January 2019. No substantive court sessions were held, and no one affected was informed of the decision; the attorney found out weeks later when he went to inquire on the status of the case. No further appeal is possible.

Amnesty International members sent letters to Omani authorities protesting the prisoners’ treatment, and the International Secretariat has formally raised the case with Oman Human Rights Commission. Amnesty International will continue to monitor the case and advocate for the prisoners’ release.

 

NO FURTHER ACTION IS REQUESTED FROM THE NETWORK. MANY THANKS TO ALL WHO SENT APPEALS.

This is the 2nd and final update for UA 121/18 More information: https://www.amnesty.org/en/documents/mde20/9971/2019/en/