Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman has granted a special royal pardon to 459 prisoners, an act of clemency announced in honor of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, marking the year 1448 Hijri. The Royal Oman Police confirmed the decision on Tuesday, noting that the pardon applies to individuals convicted of various offenses.
- Special royal pardon granted to 459 prisoners by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik
- Announcement made in honor of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad marking 1448 Hijri
- Decision confirmed by the Royal Oman Police on Tuesday
The amnesty includes both Omani citizens and foreign nationals.
While the inclusion of expatriates is significant for the country's large migrant population, authorities have not yet released a breakdown of the prisoners by nationality, specific case categories, or individual release timelines. Consequently, it remains unclear how many Indian or South Asian citizens are among those pardoned.
The Royal Oman Police stated that the decree is intended to promote a spirit of mercy and compassion during the religious occasion.
For Indian families residing in Oman, officials advise that the general announcement does not automatically guarantee the release of any specific individual. Families with relatives in custody are urged to verify their status directly through prison authorities, the relevant Omani government bodies, or the Indian Embassy.
