Riyadh Municipality, in cooperation with security forces and several government agencies, continues its intensive inspection campaign in the densely populated and commercially active Manfouha district. The campaign follows numerous observed violations and public reports received via the "Balady" (Madinity) app, particularly concerning food safety and product quality. It targets food establishments, meat vendors, cafes, street vendors, and some residential homes that have been converted into storage facilities for food items, in addition to tobacco-selling outlets.
To date, the campaign has resulted in the closure of 124 establishments, issuance of 812 notices and violations, disconnection of electricity at 11 sites, seizure of 52 street vending carts, confiscation and destruction of 31,982 unfit products, disposal of 143 kg of tobacco, and nearly 6 tons of food products. Furthermore, 450 violations related to other authorities were recorded.
The inspection teams uncovered serious and specific violations during their field tours, including the sale of unknown-source tobacco products, spoiled food on its way to consumers, expired personal care products, poor hygiene standards, unsafe food storage leading to contamination, use of homes as food warehouses, sale of rotten meat, and display of counterfeit tobacco products in prohibited areas. Violations of licensing and municipal regulations were also noted.
The municipality has taken strict actions, including issuing warnings, filing violation reports, imposing fines, and shutting down establishments that pose a direct risk to public health all in an effort to protect consumers and prevent recurrence of such practices.
This campaign is part of an ongoing proactive inspection strategy, involving daily and periodic tours in areas with high commercial activity. Post-campaign follow-ups are conducted to ensure violations are addressed. Advanced digital systems are also used to accurately document and track violations, enabling swift intervention when needed.
The municipality emphasized that it offers easy reporting channels through the "Madinity" app, which allows users to submit reports with geo-location and photos. Field teams respond to these reports immediately. The municipality highlighted the essential role of residents’ cooperation in reporting violations, reflecting a community partnership aimed at preserving a safe urban environment, ensuring service quality, and achieving sustainable urban development goals, in line with its vision to enhance quality of life in the capital.