Saudi environmental security forces have arrested a citizen for Illegal Wildlife Hunting inside Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve. Authorities said the individual hunted without a licence, violating the Kingdom’s environmental protection regulations.
The Special Forces for Environmental Security carried out the arrest after discovering the individual inside the protected reserve. During the operation, officers found an air rifle and four wild animals that the suspect had hunted. Consequently, authorities began the necessary legal procedures against the individual.
The incident highlights Saudi Arabia’s efforts to protect wildlife and enforce regulations across its designated nature reserves. These protected areas provide important habitats for animals and help preserve the Kingdom’s natural environment. Therefore, authorities continue to monitor activities that could threaten wildlife populations or damage protected ecosystems.
The Special Forces for Environmental Security also reminded residents and visitors that hunting requires the appropriate licence. Furthermore, the Environment Law and its implementing regulations prohibit unauthorised hunting, particularly in areas where authorities restrict such activities.
The authorities outlined several financial penalties for violations. Hunting without a licence carries a fine of SR10,000. Meanwhile, anyone caught hunting in a prohibited area faces a fine of SR5,000. Additionally, hunting a warbler without the required licence carries another SR5,000 penalty.
These fines reflect the different violations covered by the environmental regulations. They also underline the importance of understanding local hunting restrictions before entering protected natural areas. In particular, visitors should confirm whether authorities permit hunting in their intended location.
The environmental security forces encouraged members of the public to report suspected wildlife or environmental violations. Residents in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Region can contact emergency services through 911. However, people in other parts of Saudi Arabia should use 999 or 996 to submit reports.
Authorities also assured the public that they would handle every report with complete confidentiality. Moreover, individuals who provide information will not face legal liability for reporting suspected violations.
The arrest reinforces the Kingdom’s continued enforcement of rules against Illegal Wildlife Hunting. By combining enforcement measures, financial penalties and public reporting, authorities aim to discourage unlawful activities. These efforts also support wider environmental protection and wildlife conservation objectives across Saudi Arabia.
