A violation of environmental regulations was recorded in Hail: Mujahideen efforts to protect vegetation
As part of the ongoing efforts of the security authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to preserve natural resources and protect vegetation, the patrols of the General Directorate of Mujahideen in the Hail region were able to apprehend a citizen who violated the environmental regulations, as he was found in possession of quantities of local firewood offered for sale for commercial purposes.
Details of the process and regulatory procedures
The General Directorate of Mujahideen explained that the operation was the result of meticulous field surveillance, during which the violator was observed offering local firewood for sale, a clear violation of the Kingdom's environmental regulations. The relevant authorities immediately initiated procedures upon the seizure, and the confiscated goods were handed over to the appropriate agency to complete the legal proceedings against the violator and apply the penalties stipulated in the Environmental Law and its implementing regulations.
Context of the ban on the sale of local firewood and the efforts of the Ministry of Interior
This operation is part of a comprehensive campaign led by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with environmental authorities to monitor and regulate the marketing of local charcoal and firewood. This monitoring includes markets within cities and governorates, highways connecting regions, and the tracking of advertisements circulated illegally on electronic platforms and social media. These strict measures aim to eliminate the sources of local firewood sales in order to curb the phenomenon of illegal logging, which threatens the Saudi environment.
Environmental importance and combating desertification
The implementation of an environmental system is of paramount importance given the environmental challenges facing the region, most notably desertification. Saudi Arabia, through major national initiatives such as the "Saudi Green Initiative" stemming from Vision 2030, is working to protect vegetation cover and rehabilitate degraded lands. Illegal logging is a primary cause of natural environmental degradation and biodiversity loss; therefore, prohibiting the sale of locally sourced firewood is a fundamental pillar for restoring ecological balance and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.
Corporate social responsibility and reporting numbers
The General Directorate of Mujahideen emphasized that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility between official bodies and members of society. The Directorate urged all citizens and residents to cooperate and immediately report any instances of environmental or wildlife violations. Reports can be submitted by calling 911 in the Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and by calling 999 or 996 in the rest of the Kingdom. The Directorate stressed that public awareness is the first line of defense in protecting the nation's natural resources.
