Saudi authorities arrested over 20,000 violators and deported thousands during an enforcement drive last week/Representative Image
Saudi security agencies intensified enforcement operations across the Kingdom last week, resulting in the arrest of more than 20,000 people found in violation of residency, labour and border laws, according to figures released by the Ministry of Interior on Saturday. In a statement, the Ministry of Interior said a total of 20,237 illegal residents were arrested during joint inspection campaigns carried out between January 29 and February 4. The operations were conducted by security forces in coordination with relevant government agencies across the country. Of those detained, 12,687 people were found to be in breach of the Residency Law, while 4,318 violated the Border Security Law and 3,232 were charged under the Labour Law. During the same period, 11,656 illegal residents were deported. Authorities also referred 16,805 violators to their respective diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, while 2,437 individuals were directed to complete their travel booking procedures. The ministry reported that 1,555 people were arrested while attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally. Among them, 40 percent were Yemeni nationals, 57 percent Ethiopian nationals, and three percent belonged to other nationalities. In addition, 61 people were arrested while trying to leave the Kingdom through illegal means. Enforcement efforts also targeted those assisting violators. Authorities arrested 32 individuals accused of providing transportation, shelter or employment to illegal residents. At present, 23,807 expatriates are undergoing legal procedures, including 21,926 men and 1,881 women, as part of measures to enforce existing regulations. The Ministry of Interior reiterated its warning that anyone who facilitates illegal entry into the Kingdom, transports violators, offers shelter, or provides any form of assistance will face severe penalties. These include prison sentences of up to 15 years, fines of up to SR1 million, and the confiscation of vehicles or properties used in such activities. The public has been urged to report violations by calling 911 in the regions of Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, and 999 or 996 in all other regions of the Kingdom
