NAJRAN, 27 November 2005 — Police in Najran foiled an attempt to smuggle large quantities of weapons and ammunition into the Kingdom on Friday, Al-Watan reported. Gen. Sulaiman Al-Khilawi, chief of Najran police, said the weapons and ammunition were found hidden in a truck. The Yemeni truck driver was arrested. The smuggler tried to take advantage of the Friday prayer, believing that officers at the checkpoint would be praying.
Medical Checkups for All Expats
RIYADH, 27 November 2005 — All expatriate workers coming to the Kingdom for the first time must undergo medical tests to obtain resident permits, the Health Ministry said yesterday. The new measure will come into effect from the beginning of next Hijri year. Domestic servants, health care workers as well as hairdressers will have to undergo tests for AIDS, tuberculosis, hepatitis-B and syphilis every two years.
Permits for New Charities
DAMMAM, 27 November 2005 — Abdul Mohsin Al-Akkas, minister of social affairs, has approved 15 new charities in the Kingdom, Al-Watan reported. The ministry will issue permits to five charitable organizations in Makkah, three each in Hail and Jouf, and two each in Riyadh and Jizan.
Kidnap Attempt
TAIF, 27 November 2005 — Police in Taif have arrested a man accused of kidnapping a boy, Al-Watan reported. The man allegedly took the boy to an isolated area in a rented car. The boy managed to escape and called for help. Police sealed the area and found the man, who was reportedly drunk, still in the car.
