New Delhi, December 28: The External Affairs Ministry announced on Wednesday that the death sentences of eight former Indian Navy personnel in a case of alleged espionage in Qatar have been commuted. The ministry expressed its awareness of the verdict from the Court of Appeal in Qatar, which resulted in the reduction of their sentences.
These individuals, employed by Dahra Global in Doha, were arrested in August 2022. The specifics of the charges against them were not disclosed by Qatari authorities. Initially sentenced to death by Qatar’s Court of First Instance in October, their case saw an appeal in the higher court.
India actively engaged in supporting these individuals, with its Ambassador and officials present during the Court of Appeal session alongside family members. The ministry emphasized its continuous provision of consular and legal aid to these individuals since the beginning of the matter and assured its ongoing commitment.
Awaiting a detailed judgment, the ministry maintained close communication with legal representatives and the concerned families to determine subsequent actions. Given the confidential nature of the case, the ministry refrained from further commentary at this phase.
