DOHA: Qatari nationals and expatriates travelling to Saudi Arabia by road or air have been cautioned against carrying mobile phones with cameras.

According to some Qatari nationals who visited the kingdom recently, Saudi authorities at entry points usually ask the visitor whether they are carrying a mobile phone equipped with a camera. These authorities, using a glass-cutter, usually scratch the lens of the camera so that it cannot be used.

The other option offered is to remove the Sim card and leave the handset with the officials, who issue a token. The handset is returned when the visitor leaves the country.

They said that such steps were being taken by Saudi authorities since mobile phones with cameras are banned in the kingdom following complaints of their misuse.

Source: [The Peninsula] Via: [PM]

Now, really, when will the Saudi authorities join the civilized world?!