Orphans at a home in Makkah which a recent National Society of Human Rights (NSHR) report described as witnessing “overcrowding, beatings and unhygienic food”, have reportedly given conflicting statements to investigators from the Ministry of Social Affairs. Officials were sent to the ministry-affiliated orphanage following a NSHR visit last Saturday which resulted in allegations denied by staff at the home. “If the orphans' statements to the NSHR are shown to be untrue then their motives for making them will be looked into,” sources said. “If, however, the accusations against the staff are confirmed, then they will be punished according to regulations.” NSHR president Hussein Al-Shareef said after Saturday's visit that the orphans had complained of overcrowding, with up to 12 persons per room, and substandard food. He also said that claims of “maltreatment, which in some cases could be termed beatings” were being investigated. The NSHR report further cited “poor standards of cleanliness in the corridors, kitchens and toilets” allegedly affecting the orphans' health. “The delegation also sensed a general feeling of resentment and discontent, especially regarding the quality of food. The orphans said that they were served the same meals every day with no variety,” Al-Shareef said. The orphanage premises are said to be 30 years old and designed to house 70 people. The building currently accommodates over 125. The NSHR's final report will be submitted to Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah Region.
