Saudi police arrest dozens over 'un-Islamic' haircuts

The law enforcement team commenced a crackdown against "moral offenders" during the Islamic month of Ramadan, targeting shopping centres in the western city of Mecca, local media reported.

Young men considered in violation of habits and traditions of religious teachings were the focus of arrest.

"Authorities found a number of offences, like stage haircuts, chains that are hung upon the chest or arms, head wraps and short clothes," local media reported.

One of the young men arrest said he was unaware of the reasons for his detention.

All 50 offenders were handed over to relevant authorities pending a criminal investigation. 

Over half of Saudi citizens are under the age of 25 and are considered an increasingly internet-savvy generation ranking among the world's top online consumers.

Tensions between an increasingly globalised youth and the kingdom's highly conservative religious establishment have revolved around issues of segregation, media censorship and clothing over the past years.

In April, the Saudi government cabinet stripped the frequently criticised religious police of their powers of arrest following increased outcry of their abuse of power, particularly against women.

Members of the religious police Hay'a force [officially known as the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice] were able to arrest individuals for a variety of acts - including non-adherence to the kingdom's conservative dress-code.

Following the April change of law, Hay'a officers can now only offer advice, and violators are directed to regular police officers for follow-up or arrest.

While the law's promulgation was well-received in a number of quarters, the recent arrests will show manners of dress are still highly contested.