Saed Al-Suraihi
It is possible that Daesh (the self-proclaimed IS) could have instructed its followers to print images of explosive belts on children’s clothes and then market them. If by manufacturing these clothes, it aimed to promote terrorism and terrorize citizens, then it was successful in marketing itself and establishing its presence. These items of clothing are no less dangerous than the physical act of causing explosions.
We thank the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice (Haia) for confiscating these items of clothing following a tip-off from a member of the public. The citizen was the one who found these clothes being offered for sale. However, we do not thank the Haia for announcing this on its website before an investigation into the matter has been completed. What is even more important than confiscating these clothes is to find out who manufactured them and sent them to the market. In order to do this, investigators must operate with the utmost secrecy and follow the hidden clues that connect all of those involved with the crime. Therefore, the entire issue is the concern of security agencies which are experienced in dealing with cases that affect the security and safety of the country and it citizens.
The Haia recognizes that the clothes that bear Daesh slogans and pictures of explosive belts are not transparent abayas or young men’s low-waist pants. Therefore, the issue should not fall under Shariah violations and the Haia’s remit. However, a spokesman for the Haia said that censoring such attire is at the heart of the Haia’s line of work, as they protect the Kingdom from threats to its security and safety.
It would have been better if at the start the Haia had delegated the entire matter to the police and not publicized the issue. This would have made it possible for security agencies to find and arrest the perpetrators.
