RIYADH: Saudi authorities have carried out multiple drug-related arrests across the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday. 

Border Guard patrols in the Al-Dayer sector of the Jazan region resulted in the arrest of 11 Ethiopians for smuggling 288 kg of qat. In another operation, the smuggling of 504 kg of qat was thwarted.

Patrols in the Asir region led to the arrest of four Ethiopians for smuggling 122,550 tablets regulated for medical circulation. A firearm was seized.

Border Guard authorities in Al-Raboah, Asir, arrested six Ethiopians for smuggling 225 kg of qat plants. Another attempt to smuggle 175 kg of qat was also thwarted.

The General Administration of Mujahideen in the Eastern Province arrested a citizen for selling hashish, while, in Makkah, two citizens were arrested with 2,475 tablets regulated for medical circulation.

Preliminary legal procedures have been completed, and all seized items handed to the relevant authorities.

The public is urged to report drug smuggling or sales by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions.

Reports can also be submitted confidentially to the General Directorate of Narcotics Control at 995 or via email at 995@gdnc.gov.sa.

RIYADH: Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University in Riyadh will host a ceremony on Wednesday to honor the winners of the seventh Princess Nourah Award for Women’s Excellence, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The event, held under the patronage of King Salman, will be hosted at the university’s Conference and Convention Center and will be attended by Princess Fahda bint Falah Al-Hathleen, the spouse of the king.

This year’s award will recognize outstanding contributions in six categories: Natural sciences, health sciences, social initiatives, artistic works, economic projects and humanities.

The categories, covering both theoretical and practical fields, were opened for nominations last October, according to the SPA.

This year’s award marks a milestone, receiving a record-breaking 714 nominations from across the Kingdom, highlighting the increasing recognition and impact of the initiative.

Last year, the award introduced refined evaluation and selection processes, adopting more precise and objective criteria to ensure fairness and transparency.

The award framework was also updated to reflect national priorities and global developments, further enhancing credibility and reach.

The Princess Nourah Award for Women’s Excellence aims to highlight the accomplishments of Saudi women and recognize distinguished and creative people.

It also seeks to support outstanding women-led efforts and inspire future generations of women to contribute to comprehensive national development.