Integrity Commission: 113 defendants arrested in corruption cases across 5 Saudi ministries

Integrity Commission: 113 defendants arrested in corruption cases across 5 Saudi ministries

December 1, 2025
7 mins read
The Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) announced the arrest of 113 people in bribery and abuse of official influence cases involving 5 ministries as part of its ongoing efforts to promote transparency.

The Saudi Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) announced the results of its operations for November 2025, affirming its continued efforts to enhance transparency and hold those involved in corruption cases accountable. The Authority's monthly report revealed that it conducted 6,981 oversight visits and initiated investigations into 371 criminal cases , resulting in the arrest of 113 individuals , including employees from five different ministries.

The cases investigated by the authority included a variety of charges, most notably bribery, abuse of official power, money laundering, and forgery. The accused were distributed across several important government agencies, reflecting the comprehensiveness of the oversight and ensuring that no sector is exempt from accountability, whether security, service, or development, thus reaffirming that no one is above the law.

General context: “Integrity” as a key tool in Vision 2030

These measures are part of the pivotal role played by Nazaha, the National Anti-Corruption Commission, which was established by royal decree to promote the principles of governance and transparency in both the public and private sectors. The commission enjoys complete independence and reports directly to the King, granting it broad powers of investigation, oversight, and prosecution, with the aim of protecting public funds and ensuring the integrity of public office. These efforts are an integral part of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030. Since launching its comprehensive anti-corruption campaign in 2017, the Kingdom has reaffirmed its firm stance against corruption in all its forms and at all levels, considering its eradication essential for achieving sustainable development and economic diversification.

Importance and expected impact

Domestically, these ongoing efforts contribute to strengthening citizens' and residents' trust in state institutions and fostering a sense of justice and equality before the law. Combating corruption also ensures that state financial resources are directed towards development projects that directly benefit citizens, such as infrastructure development, improved health and education services, and the creation of a competitive and fair business environment that encourages innovation and private sector growth.

Internationally, these measures enhance the Kingdom’s reputation as a safe and reliable investment destination. Foreign investors seek clear and stable legislative environments free from corruption, which Saudi Arabia strives to provide by implementing the highest standards of integrity. These efforts also contribute to improving the Kingdom’s ranking in relevant global indices, such as the Corruption Perceptions Index, reflecting its commitment to international anti-corruption agreements. The regular publication of its monthly results by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (Nazaha) sends a clear message that oversight is ongoing to ensure the protection of the nation’s resources and the achievement of the Kingdom’s comprehensive development goals.

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