i think that's the primary reason it continues to perpetuate. Heard of such stories too, and as long as arab media and its personnel (journalists and the like) are continue tied down with containment and cover-up then i don't think these gulf countries will ever embrace the idea nor will they exemplify the truism for democracy.

Free media means free people.

This horrendous things should be highlighted (in the most constructive way) and dealt with most aggresively. Although i do think that some are of the better lot; still the rotten ones are more. Undoubtedly, for us expatriates, we'll never have the airheadedness these youngsters have (w/ respect to patriotism of our own country) since they've been brought up with such a regal lifestyle and reared with superior ity complex. Just can't wait when they'll have this nationalization policy at 100% and mind you, who's gonna bring them their errands and messy jobs!

Soothe your bruises my friend and i prayfor their  karma!

regards to ur niece n sis. hope she'll be able to overcome her traumatic experience.