Saudi authorities have arrested more than 50 individuals, including alleged sex workers and foreign nationals, in a nationwide crackdown on activities deemed immoral.
According to the Financial Times, the Ministry of Interior detained 11 women on prostitution charges, while a newly established community security unit apprehended dozens of foreigners accused of offenses in massage parlors and involvement in human trafficking.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman authorized the creation of the unit to address concerns related to morality, security, and human trafficking. Analysts suggest the move follows a rise in reported cases of sex work and other social issues in the kingdom.
While Saudi Arabia has eased some social restrictions in recent years, authorities have emphasized the enforcement of public decency laws. Some citizens have praised the crackdown as a step toward tackling human trafficking, while others compare the new unit to the former religious police, which once enforced strict moral codes.
Experts believe that Saudi Arabia’s rapid social changes, growing tourism sector, and increasing number of foreign workers may be contributing to a rise in illegal activities.
The Interior Ministry has framed the initiative as a means of upholding personal rights and fundamental freedoms within the framework of Sharia law.
