Environmental security forces uncover environmental violations in Riyadh and Medina
The Special Forces for Environmental Security continued their intensive field efforts to protect the natural resources in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where they were able to apprehend a number of violators of the environmental system in the Riyadh and Madinah regions, as part of their ongoing efforts to enforce environmental regulations and reduce unfair practices that threaten vegetation and wildlife.
Controlling soil erosion in Medina
In a successful operation in the Madinah region, the Special Forces for Environmental Security apprehended a Yemeni resident for violating environmental regulations by exploiting sedimentary deposits without a permit. The forces explained that two heavy machines used for dredging and transporting soil were seized, constituting a clear violation of the area's geological integrity. The necessary legal procedures were applied to the violator, and he was referred to the appropriate authorities.
Violations in the Tuwaiq Reserve and the King Abdulaziz Reserve
In a related incident, field patrols in the Riyadh region observed a citizen violating environmental regulations within the Tuwaiq Nature Reserve . He was found to have started a fire in an unauthorized area, disregarding instructions and guidelines aimed at preserving vegetation and preventing fires. Authorities confirmed that the penalty for starting fires in unauthorized areas within forests and national parks is a fine of up to 3,000 Saudi Riyals.
Another citizen was also apprehended for illegal grazing in the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve , where he had grazed 27 camels in prohibited areas. Authorities emphasized that the penalty for grazing camels in restricted areas is a fine of 500 riyals per camel, in order to protect natural pastures from desertification and degradation.
National context and the importance of environmental protection
These seizures come at a time when the Kingdom is intensifying its efforts to achieve the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the “Green Saudi Arabia” initiative, which prioritizes environmental protection and the development of vegetation cover. The Special Forces for Environmental Security serve as a vital enforcement arm to ensure compliance with the executive regulations of the Environmental Law. Maintaining royal and natural reserves is a fundamental pillar for restoring ecological balance, protecting biodiversity, and mitigating desertification and dust storms that impact public health and the economy.
Call for reporting and community cooperation
The Special Forces for Environmental Security reiterated their call to all citizens and residents to adhere to environmental regulations and contribute to protecting the nation's natural resources. They urged everyone to report any instances of environmental or wildlife violations by calling 911 in the Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and 999 or 996 in the rest of the Kingdom, emphasizing that all reports will be treated with complete confidentiality.
