They include two directors of Ministry of Agriculture branches, a number of municipal officials and a former official, Al-Madinah newspaper reported quoting official sources.

The officials allegedly issued title deeds illegally in Al-Baha, Aqeeq, Baljurashi and Mikhwa.

Authorities have referred the title deeds to the high court to verify their validity and take appropriate action. These title deeds, which cover huge areas of land, are issued in the name of former government officials and their children.

The court will also examine around 20 claims made by businessmen and officials regarding land they say have been illegally encroached on. These include seven plots in Al-Baha city and its suburbs as well as another four in Aqeeq and nine in Mikhwa.

The authorities also reclaimed a number of illegal townships being set up on government land.

Those who have bought plots on the Muhammadiya township in Baljurashi have been asked to obtain a refund from those who sold them the land illegally.

A committee has been formed to study the legality of land transactions at Al-Basateen township in Aqeeq.

Another decision was issued to reclaim land belonging to the Ministry of Finance and the equestrian club in Al-Baha that had been encroached on.  The authorities have also issued a directive to demolish a wedding hall built illegally in Baljurashi.

Some tribal chiefs who allegedly donated government land to officials were made to sign a pledge not to repeat such illegal acts.

The case involving the government officials accused of helping the tribal chiefs to secure illegal title deeds will be referred to the concerned ministries and departments for starting disciplinary proceedings against them, the sources added.