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Saudi Arabia has detained at least nine academics, writers and activists, campaigners said Monday, the latest in a series of crackdowns on intellectuals over the past two years. The detention of liberals -- in the midst of a much-hyped liberalisation drive -- underscores what observers call increasing repression and authoritarianism under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's de facto rule as he consolidates his grip on power. In a sweeping crackdown that began on November 16, authorities raided the homes of nine journalists, bloggers and activists across multiple cities -- including Riyadh, Jeddah and Hail -- and seized their laptops and mobiles, rights group ALQST said.
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