The anti-corruption committee, which was created by royal decree, is pursuing its mandate in “a responsible and judicious way,” with oversight from the public prosecutor “to ensure that the committee is complying with the relevant laws and regulations,” Ms. Baeshen said.

Some of those under investigation have had travel bans and asset freezes lifted, while others are still under review, she said.

“In terms of access to legal counsel and other advice, those who are under investigation have the right to seek counsel and advice,” Ms. Baeshen said. “Some have requested it and all are allowed it. All of those under investigation are in consistent touch with family members.”

Mr. Shihabi, of the Arabia Foundation, said the crackdown sought to deter future corruption and recuperate stolen wealth that could amount to hundreds of billions of dollars if real estate was included. He acknowledged that the settlement process could appear arbitrary, but said quick reforms were what the kingdom needed.

“Is it unfair to some people?” Mr. Shihabi said. “Of course. It is a blunt instrument.”

But everyone, he said, will be left with enough wealth to be comfortable. “It is not like they are being hung upside down — they are at the Ritz,” he said.

Much about the process, however, would raise red flags in the West.

Associates of three people who were detained said they had been summoned on false pretenses and taken into custody. The associates said their colleagues had not had any contact with their lawyers and had made only brief phone calls to their families, in which they could provide no information on their whereabouts or status. The associates spoke on the condition of anonymity so as not to make matters worse for the detainees.

A doctor at the nearest hospital and an American official tracking the situation said that up to 17 of the detainees had required medical attention because of abuse by their captors.