Hyderabad, Aug. 28 -- Saudi human rights organisation ALQST has raised alarm over concerns that the Public Prosecution is seeking the death penalty against prominent Islamic scholar Abdul Aziz Al-Tarifi, who is being held in solitary confinement at al-Ha'ir prison in Saudi Arabia.

ALQST said it had no further information on recent developments in his case, including whether prosecutors were still pursuing the death penalty. The uncertainty has nevertheless raised fears for al-Tarifi's fate amid the country's escalating use of capital punishment.

Arrest and lack of transparency

Al-Tarifi, known for his independent views, was arrested in late April 2016 following online posts criticising Saudi-owned broadcaster Al Arabiya and certain rel...