Border Guard Penalties: Imprisonment and Fines for Trekking and Truffle Hunting Enthusiasts

The General Directorate of Border Guards in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia renewed its strict warnings to all citizens and residents, specifically those who enjoy desert trips (camping), picnickers, and those searching for truffles known locally as “Fagaa”, against approaching border areas or attempting to cross the designated border zone, stressing that legal penalties will be imposed on anyone who violates the executive regulations of the border security system.

The rainy season and the temptation to search for truffles

This warning coincides with the rainy season and the burgeoning vegetation in the deserts, a time when desert enthusiasts embark on expeditions in search of truffles, which grow abundantly in open desert areas. The desire to find the finest truffles often leads some to venture into remote areas, potentially within restricted border zones, thus exposing themselves to legal repercussions and security risks.

Details of penalties in the border security system

The directorate clarified that the executive regulations of the border security system do not tolerate violators, as the regulations stipulate deterrent penalties that include:

• Imprisonment for up to 30 months .
• A fine of up to 25,000 Saudi Riyals .
• Or, both penalties may be applied together, depending on the severity of the violation and the circumstances of its detection.

Security authorities stressed the need to pay attention to the directional and warning signs spread along the land borders, which identify the areas prohibited from entering, calling on everyone to adhere to the routes and sites allowed for hiking and hunting.

The security importance of border areas

Border regions hold paramount strategic importance for maintaining the security and stability of the Kingdom. Border Guard forces operate around the clock to prevent infiltration and smuggling in all its forms. Preventing civilians from approaching these areas is a precautionary measure aimed first at ensuring their personal safety from potential dangers, and second at enabling security personnel to perform their duties unhindered and preventing the exploitation of visitors as cover for any illegal activities.

Maritime violations detected in Al-Qunfudhah

In a related development, as part of the Border Guard's efforts to protect national resources and enforce regulations, coastal patrols in Al-Qunfudhah Governorate, Makkah Region, recently apprehended six Egyptian residents. The arrests were made due to their violation of the safety and security regulations for those engaged in maritime activities. They were found in possession of quantities of fish caught without the necessary permits. All legal procedures were taken against them, and they were referred to the relevant authorities, underscoring the comprehensive security oversight of both land and sea areas.