RIYADH: Over 19,000 criminal court sessions were held remotely as part of the measures taken in the wake of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. According to a report issued by the Justice Ministry, since the beginning of online sessions, 2,200 court orders have been issued in criminal cases. Over 6,000 court hearings for prisoners were held remotely. Reviewing the report, Justice Minister Walid Al-Samaani said remote prosecution has become a necessity to expedite the judicial process. He said the system will remain in place even after the pandemic is over.