The government has appealed to the Saudi Arabian government for clemency on behalf of three Sri Lankans who are allegedly linked to armed robberies there.

Railways, Transport, Petroleum and Petroleum Resource Development Minister A.H.M. Fowzie carried a special message from President Mahinda Rajapakse to Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Sultan Bin Abdul Al Saud last week, requesting clemency.

Fowzie told The Island, following the President’s special request, the Crown Prince had stated that the message would be conveyed to the King.

It is learnt that under Saudi’s Sharia Law, when a judgement is given, especially pertaining to robbery, rape and murder etc. there is no reversal of the decision. However, following the President’s special request the Crown Prince will appeal to the King.

Fowzie also said that the Crown Prince is expecting the visit of President Rajapakse to Saudi Arabia.

The Minister also brought to the notice of the Crown Prince that Sri Lankans had not received dates especially during the last three Ramazan fasting seasons.

Usually Sri Lankans get 400 metric tons of dates during the fasting season.