The South African government said in a statement yesterday that it had noted with grave concern and shock the recent deaths of 22 people, including a South African citizen, in an alleged terrorist attack in Saudi Arabia.

A South African was killed and two wounded in a hostage drama in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia.

"The South African government unequivocally condemns the indiscriminate killing of innocent civilians and conveys its sincere condolences to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, family and friends of those killed in the attack," Ronnie Mamoepa, spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs, said.

He added that the South African government wished those injured a speedy recovery including the two unnamed South Africans.

In a separate statement, Mamoepa said that the Department of Foreign Affairs, through its Embassy in Riyadh, was making arrangements to have the remains of the South African repatriated.

The identity of the deceased could not be released following requests from his family, the department said.

The department was attempting to ascertain information on the two South Africans who were injured in the incident, Mamoepa added. - Sapa