Environmental violations in Saudi Arabia apprehended: penalties and details
The Special Forces for Environmental Security continued their intensive field efforts to protect vegetation and wildlife in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where they recently managed to apprehend three violators of the environmental system in different areas, as part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at deterring practices harmful to nature.
Details of seizures in different areas
In the first incident, forces in the Hail region apprehended a citizen who violated regulations by lighting a fire in an unauthorized area, posing a threat to vegetation and environmental safety. Legal procedures were immediately applied against him. In this context, the forces reiterated their warnings that lighting fires outside designated areas in forests and national parks carries a fine of up to 3,000 riyals.
In a related incident, patrols in the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve observed another citizen driving his vehicle into the meadows and natural areas, a prohibited act due to the damage it causes to the soil and newly formed vegetation. Authorities clarified that the fine for entering these protected areas is 2,000 riyals.
In the Madinah region, the Special Security and Protection Forces were able to apprehend a violator in possession of quantities of local firewood, and the seized items were handed over to the competent authorities, in line with the ongoing campaigns to prevent the sale and marketing of local firewood.
National context: Vision 2030 and environmental protection
These seizures come within a broader national context led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under its Vision 2030, specifically through the Saudi Green Initiative. These initiatives aim to combat desertification, increase green spaces, and preserve natural resources for future generations. The state has given considerable attention to developing the legislative and regulatory framework, exemplified by the establishment of the Special Forces for Environmental Security, to ensure the strict enforcement of regulations.
The environmental and economic importance of complying with regulations
Adherence to environmental regulations is of paramount importance, extending far beyond simply paying fines. Harmful practices such as illegal logging and driving in protected areas lead to soil degradation and the extinction of rare plant species, disrupting the ecological balance and exacerbating dust storms and rising temperatures. Locally, preserving these areas contributes to the promotion of sustainable ecotourism, a vital economic sector that the Kingdom is striving to develop.
Reporting channels and social responsibility
In conclusion, the Special Security and Protection Forces called upon all citizens and residents to recognize their social responsibility and report any violations against the environment or wildlife. Reports can be made by calling 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and 999 and 996 in the rest of the Kingdom. The Forces emphasized that all reports will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
