A violator was apprehended in Hail for selling local firewood: Environmental protection efforts
As part of ongoing security and field efforts to protect natural resources and enforce environmental regulations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, patrols from the General Directorate of Mujahideen in the Hail region apprehended a citizen for violating environmental regulations. He was found in possession of quantities of locally sourced firewood offered for sale. Initial legal procedures were initiated against the violator, and the seized items were handed over to the relevant authorities to complete the necessary legal procedures.
This operation is part of an intensive campaign led by the Ministry of Interior and various security sectors to monitor and control the marketing, sale, or transport of locally produced charcoal and firewood. This meticulous monitoring includes inspections within cities and governorates, strict surveillance on highways and secondary roads connecting the Kingdom's regions, and tracking online content and social media posts promoting this prohibited activity.
The importance of protecting vegetation cover and combating deforestation
These seizures are not merely routine security measures, but rather an integral part of a comprehensive national strategy adopted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to preserve the environment. Under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and the launch of major initiatives such as the “Saudi Green Initiative,” preserving vegetation cover and combating desertification has become a top priority. Preventing illegal logging and the sale of local firewood aims to halt land degradation, restore biodiversity, and reduce dust storms, thereby contributing to improved quality of life and public health.
The state has enacted strict laws criminalizing attacks on local trees and shrubs, and has encouraged the use of sustainable alternatives such as imported firewood and charcoal, which are available in the markets in a regular manner, in order to meet consumer needs without harming the fragile local environment.
Corporate social responsibility and reporting methods
The relevant authorities affirm that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility between security agencies and members of the community. Therefore, raising awareness about the dangers of purchasing locally sourced firewood directly contributes to eliminating its black market. The General Directorate of Mujahideen and the Special Forces for Environmental Security emphasize that there will be no leniency in applying the prescribed penalties against violators.
In this regard, the administration reiterated its call to all citizens and residents to contribute to this national effort by immediately reporting any instances of environmental or wildlife abuse. 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, to ensure the sustainability of our environment for future generations.
