Muscat - The Royal Oman Police (ROP) took swift action on Monday, apprehending a driver responsible for endangering green landscapes through reckless drifting. The suspect, of Arab nationality, was detained in the Governorate of Dhofar, and legal measures have been initiated against him, as confirmed by the ROP in an official statement.
Concurrently, the Environment Authority (EA) released a statement addressing the incident, highlighting that the offender would face severe legal consequences under Article 21 of the Environment Protection Law, which explicitly prohibits such harmful actions.
According to the EA, investigations revealed that the individual had engaged in drifting within green areas of the governorate, causing detrimental effects to the fungal life, botanical cover, personal safety, and overall local environment.
Emphasizing the importance of preserving natural surroundings, the Environment Protection Law strictly forbids the cutting, uprooting, or destruction of trees, shrubs, or grass that compromises the integrity of the ecosystem or leads to deforestation.
Under Article 38 of the same law, violators found in breach of these provisions face imprisonment for a minimum of 10 days and a maximum of 3 months. Additionally, they may be subject to fines ranging from RO 500 to RO 5,000, or both penalties in conjunction. In case of repeated offenses, the penalties imposed will be doubled, as emphasized by the environment authority.
Authorities are committed to upholding environmental conservation and safeguarding the natural heritage of Dhofar. This incident serves as a stark reminder that reckless actions have consequences, not only for individuals but for the fragile ecosystems that define Oman's rich biodiversity.
As efforts to protect and preserve the environment continue, the ROP and EA urge all residents and visitors to demonstrate responsible behavior, ensuring the sustainable coexistence of humans and nature.
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