Saudi Arabia has announced the execution of two Bangladeshi nationals, identified as Nazrul Islam Abdul Basir and Siti Akhtar, a woman, over a reported sexual act inside a mosque in the holy city of Mecca.

According to a statement issued by the Saudi Ministry of Interior on Wednesday, security authorities arrested the pair following the incident and charged them after an investigation.

The ministry said a competent court found both individuals guilty and sentenced them to death under Ta’zir, a form of discretionary punishment under Islamic law, citing the gravity of their actions and the violation of the mosque’s sanctity.

The statement added that the sentences were upheld by the relevant judicial authority before a royal order was issued for their execution in accordance with Saudi law.

The executions reportedly took place in the Makkah region on Wednesday.

The ministry said the action reflected the Saudi government’s commitment to maintaining security, upholding justice and protecting the sanctity of mosques.

It also warned that individuals who commit similar offences would face punishments prescribed by law.