Environmental security forces apprehend violators of environmental regulations, imposing penalties of up to 100,000 riyals
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 5 people in various regions of the Kingdom for their involvement in various environmental violations, stressing that the penalties for these violations may reach 100,000 Saudi Riyals.
Details of violations and environmental security efforts
The forces explained that the operations included various cases reflecting the vigilance of the security services and the diversity of environmental challenges. In the Madinah region, two Yemeni residents were apprehended for illegally exploiting sedimentary rock, a practice that damages the soil and contributes to land degradation. In a related incident, a citizen was apprehended in the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve for grazing seven camels in prohibited areas, a violation punishable by a fine of 500 riyals per camel. Additionally, two other citizens were apprehended in the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve after cutting through the reserve's fence and entering without official authorization.
General context: Environmental protection within Vision 2030
These stringent measures are part of a strategic approach adopted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to protect its natural capital and achieve environmental sustainability, a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030. Recent years have witnessed the launch of major initiatives such as “Green Saudi Arabia” and “Green Middle East,” as well as the establishment of royal reserves aimed at rehabilitating degraded ecosystems, protecting biodiversity, and enhancing vegetation cover. The Special Forces for Environmental Security, established in 2019, serve as the executive arm of the Ministry of Interior in monitoring and enforcing the environmental law and its implementing regulations, reflecting the state’s seriousness in addressing any violations that could harm the environment.
The importance of deterrence and its expected impact
Announcing these seizures and clarifying the penalties for them sends a strong deterrent message to anyone contemplating harming the environment. The penalty for cutting or damaging fences in protected areas can reach 100,000 riyals, with the violator also required to repair the damage and pay compensation. The fine for entering protected areas without a permit is 5,000 riyals. These substantial fines are not intended for revenue collection, but rather to raise public awareness of the importance of preserving environmental gains. Locally, these efforts contribute to preserving natural resources for future generations, while regionally and internationally, they enhance the Kingdom's position as a leading nation in environmental action and combating desertification, and reaffirm its commitment to international agreements related to climate and environmental protection.
