Saudi Arabia has freed influential Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, following a “settlement” with authorities reportedly exceeding $1 billion, more than three weeks after he was detained in a sweeping anti-corruption purge. The former National Guard chief was among more than 200 princes, ministers and businessmen who were rounded up earlier this month, as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman tightens his grip on power.
Prince Miteb, once seen as a contender to the throne, is the most high-profile royal to be released so far as the government appears to be striking monetary settlements with some of the detainees in exchange for their freedom. “Yes, Prince Miteb was released on Wednesday morning,” a source close to the government said, without outlining the terms of his release.
The prince was not reachable for comment. Saudi information ministry officials could not confirm the development but posts on social media by members of the royal family suggested he had been freed. Princess Nouf bint Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud posted an old image of Prince Miteb on Twitter saying, “Praise be to Allah. Peace be upon you.”
