Rehab for former extremists

Updated 08.41 Thu Dec 13 2007

Keywords: rehab, Jihads

Saudi Arabia is pioneering a new rehabilitation programme for former extremists.

The Middle Eastern country, which is the origin of many Islamic fighters, has set up the scheme at a detention centre.

"They went into jail for a period of time and now they are in a rhebailition centre where we are offering them help to adjust to society" - Dr Awad Alyami

Prisoners who are soon to be released are encouraged to swap their weapons for crayons and express themselves through art.

Class leader Dr Awad Alyami says the centre provides a crucial link between prison and the community for the ex-Jihads.

He said: "They came from a dark side. They got into a lot of problems and they got into trouble for it. They went into jail for a period of time and now they are in a rehabilitation centre where we are offering them help to adjust to society."

The project is even winning international attention, with the UK government confirming it is studying the scheme closely.