However, in March 2013 a man accused of armed robbery was to be crucified for three days.The last reported crucifixion took place on 21 May 2013.
According to Sharia Law this form of punishment is sanctioned by the Koran in the following verses: 5:33-34 …
33:The punishment of those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger, and strive with might and main for mischief through the land is: Execution, or crucifixion, or the cutting off of hands and feet from opposite sides, or exile from the land: That is their disgrace in this world, and a heavy punishment is theirs in the Hereafter
34:Except for those who repent before they fall into your power: In that case, know that Allah is Oft-forgiving, Most Merciful.
This practice has caused an international outcry. "Rates of crucifixions are feared to be higher than declared, as secret and unannounced executions have been reported. Saudi Arabia continues to breach a multitude of applicable international standards" writes Philip Luther of Amnesty International.
