Saudi authorities have detained two Beninese pilgrims for transporting with them banned substances, “24h Au Benin” reports, adding a third suspect has been arrested in the West African country following investigation.
The two pilgrims, a man and a woman, have been arrested upon arrival in the kingdom. The media did not provide details about the date they were detained but said Benin authorities also arrested a third person believed to be their accomplice who allegedly gave them the illegal substances.
The third suspect “24h Au Benin” notes, appeared Tuesday June 27 before the Court of Economic Crimes and Terrorism Repression (CRIET). The court indicted him for giving luggage to the two arrestees – his brother and wife – containing illegal substances.
The suspect denied any wrongdoing but the prosecution requested five years in prison and a fine of $3,300 against him. The ruling is expected on July 25.