Jazan border guards foil attempts to smuggle 200kg of qat

Qat is used as a part of cultural traditions in some Middle East societies. Above, a Yemeni harvests qat on a farm on the outskirts of Sanaa. (AFP file photo)
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Updated 18 October 2023
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Jazan border guards foil attempts to smuggle 200kg of qat

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s border guards in Jazan region have foiled two attempts to smuggle 200 kg of qat into the Kingdom.

There were several suspects arrested and the drugs seized, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

Qat is used as a part of cultural traditions in some Middle East societies, but has become a major public health problem due to its addictive qualities.

Security authorities are calling on the public to report information concerning drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province and 999 in the rest of the country.

They may also contact the General Directorate of Narcotics Control at 995 or through email: [email protected]. All reports will be treated with strict confidentiality.


Saudi wildlife center releases 140 wild animals into royal reserve

The initiatives aim to enhance ecological balance and restore biodiversity in natural habitats. (SPA)
Updated 07 February 2026
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Saudi wildlife center releases 140 wild animals into royal reserve

  • This milestone reflects significant progress in the management and governance of wildlife across the Kingdom, supporting the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative and aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030

RIYADH: The National Center for Wildlife released 140 wild animals into the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve as part of ongoing programs to reintroduce endangered species. The initiatives aim to enhance ecological balance and restore biodiversity in natural habitats.

The release, carried out in cooperation with the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority, included 30 Arabian oryx, 70 reem gazelles (sand gazelles), and 40 houbara bustards, the SPA reported on Thursday. 

The initiative forms part of efforts to reintroduce species to their natural habitats and establish stable, self-sustaining wildlife populations capable of breeding, contributing to improved ecosystem functioning and sustainability.

The NCW continues to implement its strategic plans for wildlife development, with the total number of animals reintroduced through its specialized programs now exceeding 10,000.

This milestone reflects significant progress in the management and governance of wildlife across the Kingdom, supporting the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative and aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.