Seizure of hunting and logging violations in Mecca and the Eastern Province: Details of security campaigns

Seizure of hunting and logging violations in Mecca and the Eastern Province: Details of security campaigns

30.12.2025
7 mins read
Security forces in Al-Qunfudhah arrested five residents for hunting without a permit and a citizen in the Eastern Province for selling locally sourced firewood. Learn about environmental protection efforts and official reporting numbers in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi security authorities continue their intensive efforts to protect the Kingdom's environment and natural resources by monitoring and apprehending those who violate environmental and wildlife regulations across the country. These actions are part of a comprehensive national strategy aimed at preserving ecological balance and ensuring the sustainability of resources for future generations.

Fishing violations detected in Al-Qunfudhah

In a successful operation in the Makkah region, coastal patrols of the Border Guard in Al-Qunfudhah Governorate apprehended five Egyptian residents. This action was taken due to their violation of the safety and security regulations governing maritime activities in the Kingdom's territorial waters. The violators were caught fishing without the necessary permits, and quantities of fish caught illegally were found in their possession. The relevant authorities have initiated legal proceedings against them, demonstrating the firm enforcement of maritime laws.

These seizures are of paramount importance in the context of preserving fish stocks in the Red Sea, where the Kingdom enforces strict regulations to prevent overfishing or unlicensed fishing that threatens fish stocks and coral reefs. Adherence to fishing permits is a fundamental pillar for ensuring the safety of fishermen and protecting the marine environment from depletion.

Combating illegal logging in the Eastern Province

In a related matter concerning the protection of vegetation, patrols from the General Directorate of Mujahideen in the Eastern Province apprehended a citizen for violating environmental regulations. He was found in possession of quantities of locally sourced firewood offered for sale for commercial purposes. The seized items were handed over to the relevant authorities to complete the legal procedures.

This operation is part of the Ministry of Interior's ongoing monitoring of the marketing of local charcoal and firewood, both within cities and governorates and along highways, as well as monitoring online platforms. These efforts aim to curb the phenomenon of illegal logging, which has led to the degradation of vegetation cover and increased desertification, and support the Kingdom's green initiatives that seek to rehabilitate natural lands.

Reporting and Corporate Social Responsibility Numbers

In closing, the security authorities and border guards urged all citizens and residents to adhere to environmental regulations and instructions. They emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting any violations that constitute an attack on the environment or wildlife, assuring that all reports will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

Violations can be reported by calling the following numbers:

  • (911) In the regions of Mecca, Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and Medina.
  • (999) , (996) and (994) in the rest of the regions of the Kingdom.
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