In a recent operation underscoring Saudi Arabia's intensified efforts to uphold public morals, four expatriates, including two women, were arrested for engaging in prostitution within an apartment in the Duba governorate of the Tabuk region. The arrests were executed by Tabuk police in collaboration with the General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes. Following the necessary legal procedures, the suspects have been referred to the Public Prosecution for further action.
Nationwide Campaign Against Immoral Acts
Since its establishment on February 13, 2025, the General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes, operating under the Ministry of Interior, has launched a comprehensive campaign targeting activities that contravene public decency. This initiative has led to numerous arrests across the Kingdom, particularly focusing on illicit activities occurring in hotels and massage centers. For instance, earlier this month, authorities apprehended five expatriates in Jeddah for engaging in acts violating public morals within a massage center, as reported by Arab Local.
Legal Framework and Consequences
Prostitution is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia and is punishable by imprisonment and fines. While flogging was a possible punishment until April 2020, it has since been abolished and replaced by other penalties. Foreign nationals found guilty of such offenses are typically deported after serving their sentences. The Kingdom's legal framework emphasizes the preservation of public morals and the prevention of human trafficking, aligning with its broader objectives of maintaining societal values.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Efforts
The recent arrests in Tabuk reflect the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to combating immoral acts and human trafficking. The establishment of the General Department for Community Security signifies a strategic move to enhance the efficiency of the security system and strengthen crime prevention efforts. As Saudi Arabia continues to implement its Vision 2030 reforms, balancing modernization with the preservation of cultural and religious values remains a central focus.
