Kozhikode: The 20-year prison term of Feroke native Abdul Rahim, who has been lodged in a Saudi jail, will end on Tuesday. Office-bearers of the Rahim Legal Aid Committee and Legal Aid Trust announced during a media conference in Feroke that efforts are underway to bring him back home within days of his release.
Background of the Case
Rahim, a native of Kodampuzha near Feroke, was jailed in 2006 following the death of the son of his Saudi sponsor. Rahim, who worked as the family's driver, was arrested after the boy died when his hand accidentally hit the boy's life support device. Initially sentenced to death, Rahim's release became possible after Keralites across the world raised money for the payment of Rs 34 crore as 'blood money' following years of legal efforts.
Legal Developments
The Saudi court had in July 2024 revoked Rahim's death sentence after the Saudi boy's family decided to grant him freedom upon accepting the blood money. However, the Riyadh court had in May last year sentenced Rahim to 20 years' imprisonment under the Public Rights Act, a term that will end this week.
Community leaders and legal aid groups are coordinating with authorities to ensure a smooth return for Rahim, who has spent nearly two decades behind bars.
