RIYADH: The Riyadh branch of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice (Haia) has strengthened its field presence since the start of Ramadan.

“The plan, based on inputs from fieldworkers, aims to assign their duties in the markets, streets and public places. This needs deployment of 1,200 members of the commission for this task,” said Haia in a statement. The organization, with the support of Riyadh Gov. Prince Faisal bin Bandar seeks to maintain the spirit of the holy month by ensuring adherence to Shariah rules. They will also remind the public to perform prayers on time, ensure the closure of shops, besides providing counseling to the people. This year’s Ramadan plan seeks to include a range of activities from conducting awareness and guidance to targeting markets, parks and public places.

In its guidelines, Haia said it will carry out its duties in a gentle manner, in line with the Islamic teachings as practiced by Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.