As part of ongoing efforts to enhance environmental protection and enforce deterrent regulations against violators, the Special Forces for Environmental Security announced the arrest of several individuals in various regions of the Kingdom for their involvement in activities that harm the environment and violate applicable regulations. These measures underscore the Kingdom's commitment to preserving its natural resources and environmental achievements as an integral part of Saudi Vision 2030.
Details of the violations detected
Recent operations conducted by the Special Forces for Environmental Security resulted in the arrest of five individuals in three separate incidents. Legal procedures were applied to them, and they were referred to the relevant authorities. The violations were distributed as follows:
- Exploitation of sediments: In the Madinah region, two Yemeni residents were caught violating the environmental regulations by engaging in sediment exploitation activities without obtaining the necessary licenses, which constitutes an infringement on natural resources.
- Overgrazing: In the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve, a Saudi citizen was apprehended for grazing seven camels in prohibited areas, negatively impacting the reserve's vegetation and fragile ecological balance. Authorities clarified that the penalty for grazing camels in prohibited areas is a fine of 500 riyals per camel.
- Trespassing in protected areas: In the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve, two citizens were apprehended for two violations: first, cutting the reserve's fence, and second, entering the reserve without a permit. The penalty for damaging fences in protected areas is 100,000 riyals, in addition to requiring the violator to repair the damage and pay compensation. The fine for entering protected areas without a permit is 5,000 riyals.
General context: The Kingdom's efforts to protect the environment
These stringent measures are part of a comprehensive system aimed at protecting the environment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With the launch of Saudi Vision 2030 , the leadership has given unprecedented attention to the environmental sector, launching major initiatives such as the "Saudi Green Initiative" and the "Green Middle East Initiative," which aim to combat climate change, increase vegetation cover, and protect biodiversity.
The Special Forces for Environmental Security were also established in 2019 to be the executive arm of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, and work to monitor and enforce environmental regulations throughout the Kingdom, including royal reserves, national parks and forests.
The importance of protecting nature reserves
Royal and natural reserves are a cornerstone of the Kingdom's environmental strategy. They not only contribute to the preservation of endangered plant and animal species, but also play a vital role in combating desertification and improving air quality. Imposing strict penalties on violators sends a clear message that encroaching on these areas is a red line, and that their preservation is a shared national responsibility.
The firm implementation of these systems contributes to raising environmental awareness among citizens and residents, ensures the sustainability of natural resources for future generations, and enhances the Kingdom’s position as a leading country in environmental work at the regional and international levels.
