On the morning of May 28, 2026, an emotional scene unfolded at the home of Abdul Rahim in Kodampuzha, near Feroke in Kerala’s Kozhikode district. After enduring a harrowing 20-year imprisonment in Saudi Arabia, Abdul returned to a warm and heartfelt welcome from family, friends, and local residents, marking a significant moment in his life.
Homecoming After Two Decades
Family and community members gathered in large numbers to greet Abdul Rahim as he arrived home. The occasion was particularly poignant as it coincided with the celebration of Id-ul-Adha. The atmosphere was electric with local news cameras vying for the perfect shot of the reunion. Abdul’s mother, Fathima, emotionally embraced her son, while he stood initially struck with a mix of disbelief and overwhelming joy. Even as a light rain fell, the crowd remained undeterred, celebrating this momentous occasion in his life.
Abdul arrived on an Air India Express flight that departed from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, late the previous night. His legal representatives noted that airport authorities in Saudi Arabia facilitated his exit, ensuring all immigration procedures were completed before he arrived at Calicut International Airport around 8 a.m. He was accompanied by his power of attorney, Siddique Thuvvur, and family members eager to support him on this pivotal day.
Expression of Gratitude
Speaking to the media following his arrival, Abdul Rahim expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who had stood by him during his incarceration. He specifically acknowledged the support from officials at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, members of the Abdul Rahim Legal Assistance Committee, and the broader Malayali community. His gratitude encapsulated not just a personal relief but a collective effort that had contributed to his eventual return.
Abdul’s journey to freedom took a significant turn on May 19, when his 20-year sentence officially ended. His tragic saga began in 2006, when he was sentenced to death for the murder of a 14-year-old boy, the differently-abled son of his employer. Though he claimed the incident was accidental, the court’s verdict initially leaned in favor of his employer’s testimony, leading to a severe sentence.
A Crucial Turning Point
The turning point in Abdul Rahim’s case occurred thanks to significant fundraising efforts by the Malayali diaspora, which succeeded in gathering ₹35 crore, the amount demanded as blood money by the victim’s family. This financial support ultimately led to the victim’s family agreeing to retract the death sentence, resulting in a Saudi court revoking it in July 2024. However, a subsequent ruling by the Riyadh Criminal Court in May 2025 led to a 20-year rigorous imprisonment sentence under the Public Rights Act, which has only recently concluded.
This homecoming not only represents the end of a long and arduous journey for Abdul Rahim but also highlights the power of community support and the complexities surrounding legal and social issues in a foreign land. His return serves as a reminder of the human capacity for resilience and hope, especially during challenging times.
As Abdul embraces his newfound freedom, his story resonates with many who have faced similar battles, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in the face of adversity.