On Tuesday, authorities in Riyadh arrested a man for sexually harassing a woman at a local restaurant, Sabq news site >reported.
In a statement on the matter, Chaker bin Suleiman Al Tuwaijiri, the official spokesman for the city's police, identified the defendant as a Saudi national in his thirties.
Al Tuwaijiri explained that the man has now been referred to concerned authorities and will be prosecuted under the kingdom's laws.
The man's detainment came just hours after CCTV footage capturing the horrific incident went viral on social media. In the clip, the victim is seen waiting in line to pick up an order when the man ambushes her. The perpetrator then grabs the woman and forcibly kisses her.
The video capturing the incident sparked outrage on Saudi Twitter. Many immediately called on police to take action against the man.
Some people grossly tried to put the blame on the victim, saying the woman incited the incident because she wasn't wearing a hijab. But, these claims were quickly refuted by many who are simply fed up with the vile excuses people make for abusers.
The victim-blaming card was played
"This is the result of mixed-gender public areas, immodesty, and going out with make-up on."
But, women would not let it slide
"We're not animals, we don't live in a jungle. We're human beings and we were blessed with brains that can recognize if it's right or wrong to touch someone like this. Those who can't, will be taught how to by the law."
"Imagine that this person is someone's male guardian"
Many were relieved at news of the arrest
"They got him."
"He deserves to be punished so that others learn"
Saudi authorities have been fighting against sexual harassment in recent months
Sexual harassment cases are reported in Saudi Arabia on a daily basis. In recent years, the country has been adamant about taking action against the alarming rates of abuse.
Just last week, a Saudi Snapchat celebrity >was arrested after footage of him harassing a female nurse outside a hospital began circulating on social media.
In recent months, police departments across the kingdom have also made several other >immediate arrests related to abuse cases >captured in videos.
In addition, the country recently >passed an anti-sexual harassment law aimed at protecting victims.
The law is of vital importance in the kingdom, where women continue to face >high rates of sexual harassment. Activists hope it will encourage more victims to come forth and report their abuser.