Environmental security forces apprehend violators of grazing regulations in the Imam Abdulaziz Reserve
Ongoing efforts to protect vegetation cover
As part of ongoing efforts to protect the Saudi environment and preserve vegetation from degradation, the Special Forces for Environmental Security announced the arrest of a Saudi citizen for a clear violation of environmental regulations within the boundaries of the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve. Authorities explained that the violation consisted of grazing 20 camels in areas where grazing is strictly prohibited. This necessitated immediate intervention by field patrols and the application of legal procedures against the violator in accordance with the executive regulations of the environmental law in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Strict penalties to deter violators
The Special Forces for Environmental Security emphasized that environmental regulations are clear and strict regarding encroachment on nature reserves. They confirmed that the penalty for grazing camels in prohibited areas is a fine of 500 Saudi Riyals per camel, meaning the fines are multiplied according to the number of animals seized. These firm measures aim to create a strong deterrent to prevent the recurrence of such violations, which harm the ecological balance and hinder the growth of wild plants.
The importance of the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve
The Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve is of paramount importance, located in the northeastern part of Riyadh. It is one of the most prominent royal reserves established by royal decree to preserve biodiversity and reintroduce endangered wildlife. Protecting these reserves aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Green Saudi Arabia initiative, which aim to combat desertification, increase green spaces, and improve the quality of life. This, in turn, positively impacts the local and regional climate and contributes to international efforts to combat climate change.
A fire was started in the Tuwaiq Reserve
In a related development concerning comprehensive environmental protection efforts, the Special Forces for Environmental Security apprehended another citizen for violating environmental regulations in the Tuwaiq Nature Reserve. The violation consisted of failing to comply with instructions and guidelines for preserving vegetation by lighting fires in undesignated areas. The Tuwaiq Nature Reserve is a prominent natural and historical landmark, and protecting it from uncontrolled fires is a top priority to prevent environmental disasters that could destroy vast areas of trees and shrubs. The forces warned that the penalty for lighting fires in undesignated areas within forests, national parks, and reserves is a fine of up to 3,000 riyals.
Call for community participation and reporting of violations
Adherence to environmental regulations is not merely a legal obligation, but a national and moral duty incumbent upon every citizen and resident to ensure the sustainability of natural resources for future generations. In this regard, the Special Forces for Environmental Security called upon all members of society to actively cooperate and proactively report any instances of environmental or wildlife abuse.
Citizens and residents can easily submit reports by calling 911 in the Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern Province regions. In the rest of the Kingdom, they can call 999 or 996. Security authorities have confirmed that all reports are handled with complete confidentiality and professionalism, without imposing any legal or personal liability on the reporter, thus reinforcing the role of community partnership in protecting the nation's environmental resources.
