The infamous “tobacco factory” case progressed on Wednesday.

On Tuesday night, the State Security Court (SSC) received the case file of what PM Omar Razzaz described as a financially-motivated crime, which is the reason why he referred it to the SSC.

Today the court will look into the case and will hear the statements of eight of the suspects involved in the crime.

The suspects are accused of the illegal manufacturing and smuggling of different brand cigarettes.

Minister of State for Media Affairs and Communications and government spokesperson, Jumana Ghunaimat, said in a press conference this week that a travel-ban was issued against 30 wanted persons who are now facing charges for being involved in the tobacco factory case.

The spokeswoman added that the crime is of economic enormity; something that profoundly affects the welfare and general security of the Kingdom, which is why the case was filed and referred to the State Security Court (SSC).

A list of the suspects’ names and national ID numbers was leaked online on Monday. The list included the names of a deceased person, eight prisoners, a minor (under 18) and others who are currently outside the country.