Saudi executes Pakistani man for smuggling heroin

RIYADH, May 10 (Reuters) Saudi Arabia executed a Pakistani man today for smuggling heroin into the kingdom, bringing to at least 52 the number of people executed in the Muslim country this year.

Mohammad Siddiq was beheaded in Jeddah after being found guilty of bringing heroin which he had concealed in his stomach.

The executions, usually carried out through public beheadings, apply to those convicted of drug trafficking, rape, murder and other violent crimes.

Human rights groups say the punishment is draconian and reflects old customs. Saudi Arabia, which beheaded 38 people last year and 83 people in 2005, says it is strictly following the rules of Islamic law.

REUTERS DS VV1904