Violators caught cutting down trees in Tabuk: Security and Protection enforces penalties

The Special Security and Protection Forces announced the arrest of two citizens in the Tabuk region for violating environmental regulations by cutting down trees, a clear act of aggression against the Kingdom's vegetation and natural resources. Legal procedures were applied to the violators, and the seized quantities were handed over to the relevant authorities, in a move that underscores the determination of security and environmental agencies to combat any practices that harm the environment.

The context of environmental protection in the Kingdom and Vision 2030

This security operation comes within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to preserve the environment and combat desertification, efforts that are of paramount importance within the objectives of “Vision 2030.” Protecting vegetation cover is a fundamental pillar of the “Saudi Green Initiative,” which aims to plant 10 billion trees across the Kingdom in the coming decades. Therefore, preserving ancient and rare wild trees is a top priority, as cutting down a single tree destroys years of natural growth in a harsh desert environment.

Environmental importance of the Tabuk region

The Tabuk region boasts a unique environmental and geographical diversity, encompassing numerous valleys and nature reserves that harbor rare species of trees and wild plants. Illegal logging and deforestation pose a direct threat to this ecological balance, leading to soil degradation, increased dust storms, and the loss of natural habitats for wildlife. Therefore, the role of the Special Security and Protection Forces extends beyond law enforcement to include safeguarding the natural heritage for future generations and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources.

Deterrent penalties and reporting mechanism

As part of its awareness and deterrence efforts, the Special Security and Protection Forces reiterated their warnings that cutting down trees is a severe penalty, with fines reaching 20,000 riyals for each tree cut down. These strict penalties aim to reduce environmental violations and raise public awareness of the importance of preserving nature.

The forces also called on all citizens and residents to cooperate with security and environmental authorities and to report any instances of environmental or wildlife violations. Reports can be submitted via the following numbers:

• The number (911) is used in the regions of Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province.
• The numbers (999) and (996) are used in the rest of the Kingdom's regions.

The relevant authorities confirmed that all reports are handled with complete confidentiality, without any liability falling on the reporter, which enhances the role of the community as a key partner in protecting the environment.