AI says Sri Lankans were convicted without a proper judicial procedure

Deputy Foreign Minister Hussein Bahila told BBC Sandeshaya that many more Sri Lankans are charged in Saudi courts.

At least eight more Sri Lankans are charged with various offences in the Arab nation, according to Al-Madeena newspaper.

'Flawed' judicial procedure

International rights watchdogs have accused Saudi authorities of imposing death sentences to two more Sri Lankans without a proper judicial procedure.

We can provide consular assistance but there is no provision providing them with financial assistance for legal services Deputy Minister Hussein Bahila

A Sri Lankan mother, Halemma Nissa Cader, and KMS Bandaranaike and his wife Naushad, an Indian national, were recently sentenced to death in Saudi, according to Amnesty International.

The three are accused of armed robbery and killing woman in Jeddah in November 2005.

"They have had no legal assistance at any time, even during trial and are believed to have confessed under duress," a statement issued by the AI said.

Confessions under duress

The rights watchdog said the three Asian nationals' convictions were based on confessions taken under duress.

"Amnesty International's concern is heightened given that appeals are heard in secret and that these individuals will be at risk of imminent execution if their sentences are upheld on appeal," the statement added.

They have had no legal assistance at any time, even during trial and are believed to have confessed under duress AI statement

Saudi authorities have so far carried out at least 103 executions during this year.

Death sentences are usually carried out by beheading.

The Sri Lankan embassy in Riyadh has submitted an appeal against a death sentence imposed upon Sri Lankan teenager, Rizana Nafeek.

Parents meet Rizana

Her parents who are visiting Riyadh with Deputy Minister Bahila have met Rizana in the prison for the second time in a week.

	Parents have met Rizana for the second time in the Saudi prison

Speaking with BBC Sandeshaya from Riyadh, the minister said said government would not be able to pay for the appeals as there is no such arrangement.

"We can provide consular assistance but there is no provision providing them with financial assistance for legal services," he told bbcsinhala.com.