Saudi preliminary investigations show missing journalist is dead

The king also ordered the formation of a ministerial committee headed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to restructure the kingdom's intelligence services.

The orders were made shortly after the announcement of the murder of Khashoggi and the arrest of 18 Saudi suspects. No official announcement was made to confirm or deny that the king's orders are related to Khashoggi's death.

Khashoggi, a Saudi journalist who lived in the United States, disappeared on Oct 2 after visiting the consulate to complete paperwork related to his divorce.

Saudi Arabia previously denied allegations that the kingdom had murdered or arrested Khashoggi.