Saudi Arabia arrests 12 expats over prostitution ring in residential apartment

5 men and 7 women have been held on charges of engaging in prostitution

Last updated: July 17, 2025 | 05:29

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The arrests were carried out by the Special Tasks and Duties Force of the Najran Police, in coordination with the General Directorate of Community Security and the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit. For illustrative purposes only.

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Dubai: Saudi authorities have arrested 12 expatriate residents — five men and seven women — on charges of engaging in prostitution in a residential apartment in the southern city of Najran, Al Riyadh Arabic daily reported.

The arrests were carried out by the Special Tasks and Duties Force of the Najran Police, in coordination with the General Directorate of Community Security and the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit.

Also Read: Saudi Arabia busts prostitution ring

Authorities described the operation as part of ongoing efforts to combat violations of public morality and crack down on human trafficking.

All detainees were taken into custody, and legal procedures have been initiated.

Also Read: Saudi Arabia: Asian man held for exploiting runaway housemaids, running prostitution ring

The case has been referred to the Public Prosecution, according to a statement from the Ministry of Interior.

Officials have not disclosed the nationalities of the suspects or the details of the investigation.

Saudi Arabia maintains strict laws prohibiting prostitution, and enforcement efforts are often conducted in coordination with anti-trafficking units to determine whether individuals were coerced or exploited.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.