Saudi Interior Ministry confirmed on Tuesday the execution of four local extremists convicted in numerous terror attacks in Qatif in the eastern province.

Qatif is also home to the town of Al Awamiya, where there has been a surge in violence since May between militants and security forces who are demolishing the town's historic centre.

In the list of offenses broadcast by the Interior Ministry, it did not appear that any of the four executed Tuesday had been found guilty of committing murder. Many of the offenses were related to their participation in protests. All were found guilty of disobeying the country's ruler, a common charge leveled against dissidents.

The list of charges, however, also includes violent offenses such as opening fire on police, harboring fugitives, throwing firebombs at security forces during protests and being part of a terrorist cell aimed at undermining security.

Source: Khaleej Times