Saudi Arabia has arrested 13,889 people and deported 10,431 foreign nationals during a nationwide crackdown on residency, labour and border security violations.
The Ministry of Interior said authorities carried out joint operations from October 1 to 7 in cooperation with relevant government agencies.
Thousands Arrested for Legal Violations
According to the ministry’s figures, authorities arrested 6,785 people for violating residency regulations. They also detained 3,710 people on suspicion of breaching border security rules. In addition, officials arrested 3,394 people for labour law violations.
During the same period, security personnel detained 1,382 people who allegedly tried to enter Saudi Arabia illegally through its borders. Ethiopian nationals accounted for 66% of this group, while Yemeni nationals made up 33%. Citizens of other countries represented the remaining 1%.
Authorities also arrested 34 people who allegedly attempted to leave the Kingdom illegally.
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Legal Proceedings Against More Than 33,000 Foreign Nationals
The Ministry of Interior said legal proceedings remain underway against 33,113 foreign nationals over residency and immigration violations. This group includes 30,438 men and 2,675 women.
Meanwhile, officials referred 18,947 people to their countries’ diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents. They also sent 4,596 people to the relevant authorities to complete arrangements for their return home.
In a separate action, authorities arrested 21 people accused of providing transport, accommodation or employment to individuals residing in Saudi Arabia illegally.
Ministry Warns Against Helping Illegal Residents
The Saudi Ministry of Interior warned that anyone who helps people enter the Kingdom illegally, transports them within the country, shelters them or provides other assistance could face severe penalties.
Under the penalties outlined by the ministry, offenders could receive up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to 1 million Saudi riyals. Authorities may also confiscate vehicles used to transport illegal residents and properties used to shelter them.
The ministry urged citizens and residents to report violations to the relevant authorities. People in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province can call 911 to report suspected violations.
