RIYADH: Strict action has been taken against an Indian expatriate for dumping untreated wastewater into a desert in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, considered a holy land by the Muslims. The Saudi government imposed a hefty fine of crores on the expat arrested. The police arrested him on November 11 for violating the country's environmental laws.

The Environmental Security Special Force (SFES) informed that the accused was caught while he was dumping untreated waste water. The post shared by Special Force on X said that he had committed an act that posed a serious threat to the local ecosystem. The post also informed that he will be punished according to the law of Saudi Arabia. The court later awarded a fine of Rs 66 crore. He was also sentenced to 10 years imprisonment.

Under the Saudi Arabian law, dumping untreated water in undesignated areas can result in a fine of up to 30 million Saudi Riyals (Rs 66,88,42,778) or up to 10 years in prison. In some cases, both are awarded to the accused. Meantime, the Saudi government said that if you notice such actions that are harmful to the environment, should inform the authorities.