SAUDI ARABIA: Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Nayef bin Abdul Aziz, was reported dead by the Saudi state media on Saturday. The Crown Prince was reported to be around 78 years of age.

According to sources, the Saudi Crown Prince had left the gulf state for holidays and medical test last month and according to reports on 3rd June, the Crown Prince was reported to be in good health with further news that he would be returning home "soon".

Nayef bin Abdul Aziz served his country under several designations including Deputy Premiership and as the Interior Minister.

Nayef bin Abdul Aziz was born in Taif in 1934 and was the twenty-third son of King Abdul Aziz. He became the Crown Prince in October 2011, following the death of his predecessor, Sultan bin Abdul Aziz.

Nayef bin Abdul Aziz's younger brother, Prince Salman, is expected to take over as the Crown Prince following the death of his elder brother. Prince Salman currently serves as the Governor of Riyadh.