Sweeping Saudi purge and detentions of princes, including tycoon Waleed bin Talal

Diane Shalem 7478 Views 533 Comments

Dozens of princes and former prime ministers were detained overnight Saturday in Saudi Arabia, including global financial tycoon Prince Waleed bin Talal, a major investor in Citigroup, 21st Century Fox, Apple and Twitter, among others. The purge was described as part of the kingdom’s first ever anti-corruption drive, in line with Crown Prince Mohamad bin-Salman’s reform program. Also detained was Finance Minister Ibrahim Al Assaf. King Salman said the detainees were “weak of character, without conscience or morals.” A parallel purge took place in the top ranks of the military and the National Guard. DEBKAfile reports that the Crown Prince targeted his opponents and strengthened his own position. Some sources claim the king will abdicate soon and Prince Muhammad ascend the throne.

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