A total of 149 people, including Saudi nationals and foreign nationals, were arrested in January on corruption charges, according to the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha).
The Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) revealed that 149 individuals, a mix of Saudi citizens and expatriates, were arrested on corruption charges in January. Some were released on bail, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency, following charges related to bribery, abuse of power, money laundering, and forgery under the Criminal Procedures Law. The arrested individuals are undergoing standard legal procedures before being referred to the judiciary.
These arrests resulted from 2181 inspection raids and investigations targeting 360 suspects, including employees from key ministries such as the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, and Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture.
Nazaha emphasized the importance of public involvement in combating corruption and encouraged citizens to report any suspicious financial or administrative activities. The authority provided toll-free contact via phone at (980) and an online reporting option through their website: nazaha.
This concerted effort aligns with Saudi Arabia's commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity within its governmental institutions. The focus on addressing corruption is a crucial aspect of fostering public trust and ensuring the effective functioning of the country's administrative and financial systems.
Nazaha's proactive measures, including inspection raids and investigations, underscore the government's commitment to maintaining a corruption-free environment. By holding individuals accountable for their actions and involving the public in reporting suspicious activities, Saudi Arabia aims to strengthen its governance structures and contribute to the overall well-being of its society.