Enforcement of violations of the environmental system and the security and safety regulations in the Kingdom
Saudi Arabia's security authorities continue their intensive campaigns to strengthen environmental monitoring and strictly enforce regulations. Recently, several violations of environmental regulations and safety and security bylaws were detected and addressed in the Eastern Province, Tabuk, and Al-Jawf regions. These field operations are part of ongoing efforts to preserve natural resources, protect wildlife, and reduce environmental pollution that threatens the integrity of ecosystems across the Kingdom.
Strict measures to reduce violations of the environmental system in the Eastern Province
In the Eastern Province, the Special Forces for Environmental Security apprehended a Sudanese resident for violating regulations by polluting the environment and damaging the soil through the dumping of concrete materials in unauthorized locations. Legal procedures were initiated against him, and he was referred to the relevant authorities for further investigation.
The forces indicated that the penalty for engaging in any activity that directly or indirectly leads to damage to the soil, its pollution, or negatively affects its natural properties and use, may reach a financial fine of 10 million Saudi riyals, reflecting the strictness of the laws deterring any violations that harm the local environment.
Protecting water resources and adhering to safety and security regulations in Tabuk
In a related incident, coastal patrols of the Border Guard in Al Wajh Governorate, Tabuk Region, apprehended two citizens who had committed blatant violations of the safety and security regulations for those engaged in maritime activities. This occurred after they were caught fishing without the necessary permits and using prohibited fishing gear that harms the marine environment and negatively impacts the reproduction of aquatic resources.
Coordination has been made with the relevant authorities to take legal action against them. The Border Guard urges all citizens and residents to fully comply with the instructions and regulations that ensure the sustainability of the marine environment and protect marine life from overfishing and illegal activities.
Combating the degradation of vegetation cover in Al-Jawf
In the Al-Jawf region, the Special Forces for Environmental Security apprehended a citizen who violated regulations and guidelines for preserving vegetation by starting a fire in an unauthorized area. Security officials confirmed that starting a fire in undesignated areas within forests or national parks is punishable by a fine of up to 3,000 Saudi Riyals. These strict penalties aim to mitigate the risk of fires that could consume vast areas of vegetation and destroy the region's biodiversity.
Historical background and expected impact on enhancing environmental security
The Special Forces for Environmental Security in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were established as a strategic step aligned with the goals of Vision 2030, specifically within the National Transformation Program, which prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability. Historically, environmental laws in the Kingdom have undergone significant development, evolving from general guidelines to stringent regulations supported by specialized security forces with full authority to apprehend violators and refer them to the judiciary.
The anticipated impact of these efforts is evident on several levels. Locally, these campaigns contribute to restoring the balance of ecosystems, protecting vegetation from desertification, and safeguarding beaches and fish stocks from depletion. Regionally and internationally, the Kingdom's commitment to environmental protection reinforces its leading role in environmental efforts, particularly through the "Saudi Green" and "Green Middle East" initiatives, which aim to combat climate change, reduce carbon emissions, and increase green spaces.
Security authorities urge everyone to cooperate and report any attacks on the environment or wildlife by calling (911) in the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or (999) and (996) in the rest of the Kingdom’s regions, stressing that all reports will be dealt with in complete confidentiality without any liability on the part of the reporters.
