Two Sudanese residents arrested in Makkah for illegal tree cutting and charcoal production

The Special Forces for Environmental Security have arrested two Sudanese residents in violation of environmental regulations for cutting down and burning trees to produce local charcoal in the Makkah region. Authorities seized 40 cubic meters of local firewood and 15 cubic meters of local charcoal in their possession. Legal procedures were taken against them, and the confiscated materials were handed over to the relevant authorities.

The forces clarified that the penalty for cutting, uprooting, transporting, removing, or trading trees from vegetated land without a permit can reach up to 20,000 riyals (SAR) per tree. The fine for transporting, selling, or storing local firewood and charcoal can reach up to 16,000 riyals per cubic meter, while lighting fires outside designated areas in forests and national parks carries a fine of up to 3,000 riyals. The public is urged to report any violations against the environment or wildlife by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 and 996 in other regions. All reports will be handled confidentially with no liability for the informant.