Saudi Arabia's Special Forces for Environmental Security (SFES) swiftly responded to a recent incident in the capital city. A lion, found roaming loose in a Riyadh district, has been successfully restrained and handed over to a specialized agency.

SFES shared a photo of the captured lion safely secured inside a cage, ensuring the public's safety and the animal's well-being.

While details regarding when and where the lion was found and how it entered Riyadh remain unknown, SFES has established hotlines on Twitter for the public to report any environmental or wildlife-related issues in Saudi Arabia.

It is essential to note that Saudi Arabia strictly prohibits the trading, possession, and display of endangered animals. Violators can face severe penalties, including up to 10 years of imprisonment and fines of up to SR30 million. Unfortunately, incidents involving wild animals have been reported in the kingdom in recent years.

In a recent case, Saudi security agencies and wildlife inspectors uncovered an establishment illegally keeping and showcasing wild animals, including a lion and a tiger, in the Asir region. The state wildlife institution, the Saudi National Centre for Wildlife (NCW), spearheaded the operation.

Earlier this year, Saudi authorities seized a cheetah, a wolf, and a large snake from a citizen's possession, emphasizing their commitment to wildlife protection.

In another instance, authorities successfully handled a fox spotted in a residential area in the eastern part of the kingdom. After ensuring its well-being, the fox was released back into its natural habitat to preserve the environmental balance.

The incidents highlight the importance of responsible wildlife management and the consequences of illegal animal trade. Saudi authorities continuously work to combat such activities and safeguard both the public and wildlife.

Let's join forces to protect Saudi Arabia's rich biodiversity and report any environmental infractions. Together, we can ensure a sustainable future for all.