Heritage Commission detects illegal excavation, takes action against violator

Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission has reported a violation of the Antiquities and Urban Heritage Law after detecting unauthorized surveying and excavation activities, as well as the possession of a metal object claimed by its holder to be of archaeological significance. The commission confirmed that it has initiated legal procedures against the violator in accordance with the law.

The commission emphasized that conducting archaeological surveys and excavations requires official permits, noting that the detected case involved bypassing these legal requirements, in addition to possessing a metal artifact allegedly linked to heritage.

The Heritage Commission stressed that protecting national heritage is a shared responsibility between official bodies and the public, and warned that any encroachment on or tampering with archaeological sites constitutes a punishable offense.

The commission stated that it has taken all necessary legal measures against the violator, as stipulated by the Antiquities and Urban Heritage Law, to ensure the protection of archaeological sites and the preservation of valuable heritage items.

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The Heritage Commission urged citizens and residents to report any violations related to antiquities and urban heritage through the "Archaeological Report" service or by contacting the National Center for Security Operations at 911.

The commission added that receiving such reports helps safeguard archaeological sites and artifacts, and preserves the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia.