Officials said the operation has focused on the Saudi capital Riyad. They said the effort would bolster the police presence in Riyad to prevent burglary and juvenile violence during school vacation.

The operation was launched on June 23 and would continue through September. Officials said the offensive was prompted by a sharp rise crime in the Saudi capital.

Saudi police said patrols would be bolstered throughout Riyad, particularly in neighborhoods whose residents leave for the summer. Police would also erect checkpoints in unidentified neighborhoods.

Officials said police would also increase the deployment of plainclothes officers in public places. They cited shopping malls and housing complexes.

"The aim of the first phase is to deter crimes before they happen," the statement said.