A Saudi man reportedly was sentenced to 2,000 lashes and 20 years in prison for allegedly raping and blackmailing a young woman, reported the Arab News.

‘In an exemplary punishment, the Criminal Court in Taif has sentenced a man in his twenties to 20 years in prison and 2,000 lashes.’

‘Sources reveal the young man violated the housewife and threatened to publish her inappropriate photos online.

Upon receiving a report, authorities arrested the man, who admitted to the charges at the Bureau of Investigation and Public Prosecution. He was then handed over to the court in Taif, where he was sentenced.’

‘The 2,000 lashes would be carried out in parts with 70 at a time. The court ruled that some of the lashes would be carried out in commercial markets after Isha prayer and some after Friday prayer. His name would be announced to the public with his face exposed during the punishment.’

‘The first round of lashes was carried out on Tuesday night in front of the Taif International Market after Isha in the presence of a number of security agencies and a representative from the province and the Haia.’