The Saudi state-run news agency quotes prosecutors as saying that Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi was killed in the Saudi Consulate in a fight.
According to state TV, a talk between Khashoggi and those who met him during his arrival at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul Oct. 2 let to an argument and a fight that led to his death.
The news agency also quotes prosecutors as saying 18 Saudis are being held as suspects in Khasoggi’s death.
The royal court adviser close to the crown prince has been fired in wake of the Khashoggi killing.
“The kingdom expresses its deep regret” over the slaying of writer Jamal Khashoggi, according to the state-run news agency.
Saudi state TV and the state-run Saudi Press Agency carried the statement early Saturday morning.
It was also announced the Saudis have set up a commission to investigate Khashoggi’s death. It will have one month to release the report.
The commission will consist of national security officials, the foreign ministry, and the interior ministry.
The bulletin also said a royal order has been issued to release Major General Ahmed Al Assiri from his duty as the deputy of the intelligence services.
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