MAKKAH: Saudi security authorities have taken a man into custody after he allegedly harassed visitors and created panic in the area, officials said.
The man was arrested after his conduct reportedly caused alarm among people nearby. Authorities said prompt action was taken, although no further details regarding the incident or the suspect were immediately disclosed.
The development comes amid Saudi Arabia’s continued enforcement of measures aimed at preventing harassment in public places.
In August, authorities arrested another man after videos emerged showing him allegedly harassing a woman and assaulting another person. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect had mental health issues. Police in Riyadh initiated legal proceedings in the case.
Under Saudi Arabia’s Anti-Harassment Law, unwanted sexual remarks, behaviour or gestures are criminal offences, including acts committed through digital platforms and other modern technologies.
The law provides for imprisonment of up to two years and a fine of up to SAR100,000. For aggravated or repeat offences, penalties can increase to five years in prison and a fine of up to SAR300,000.
Saudi authorities have previously detained individuals accused of harassing women.
In 2021, six men were arrested after allegedly surrounding the vehicle of a foreign tourist in Riyadh and subjecting her to verbal and gestural harassment.
A Saudi Public Prosecution source, quoted by the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA), said an investigation was launched into the incident involving the six men.
Saudi Arabia introduced legislation criminalising sexual harassment in 2018 as part of efforts to strengthen protections for victims and improve safety in public and workplace settings.
The legislation has subsequently been strengthened, including provisions allowing courts to order the publication of a convicted offender’s sentence in local newspapers or through other appropriate channels, depending on the seriousness and impact of the offence.
