The Special Security and Protection Forces announced the arrest of two citizens in the Tabuk region for violating environmental regulations by illegally cutting down trees. Legal procedures were applied to them, and the seized timber was handed over to the relevant authorities for further action.
General context: National efforts to protect the environment
This operation comes within the framework of broader national efforts undertaken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to protect its natural environment and preserve its vegetation cover, a cornerstone of achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The Kingdom has launched ambitious initiatives such as the “Saudi Green Initiative,” which aims to plant billions of trees and combat desertification. To ensure the implementation of these objectives, the Special Forces for Environmental Security were established as the executive arm of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture. These forces are responsible for monitoring and enforcing strict environmental regulations throughout the Kingdom and prosecuting violators who engage in activities that harm natural resources, such as illegal logging and deforestation.
Environmental importance of the Tabuk region
This incident is particularly significant as it occurred in the Tabuk region, which is characterized by its unique biodiversity and stunning natural landscape, encompassing mountains, plains, and coastlines. Protecting the vegetation in this region not only contributes to maintaining ecological balance and combating desertification, but also supports major development projects in the area, such as NEOM and the Red Sea Project, which rely heavily on environmental sustainability as a key attraction. Native trees are an integral part of the ecosystem, providing habitat for wildlife and contributing to soil stabilization and improved air quality.
Deterrent penalties and a call for community participation
The authorities emphasized that penalties for such violations are severe and deterrent, with fines for cutting down a single tree reaching 20,000 Saudi Riyals. This measure aims to deter anyone who might consider encroaching on natural resources. The authorities also called on citizens and residents to be partners in protecting the environment by immediately reporting any instances of environmental or wildlife violations via the designated numbers: 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh, Eastern Province, and Madinah regions, and 999 and 996 in the rest of the Kingdom. They assured the public that the identity of those reporting will be kept confidential. These ongoing efforts to enforce environmental law reflect the Kingdom's unwavering commitment not only domestically but also regionally and internationally, as it plays a pivotal role in global efforts to combat climate change and preserve biodiversity, thus reinforcing its position as a leading nation in environmental sustainability.
