Saudi Arabia Apprehends Over 19,000 Violators Of Residency And Labor Laws In Recent Inspections

The Ministry of Interior carried out inspection campaigns across Saudi Arabia from November 21 to November 27. These inspections aimed to ensure adherence to residency, labour, and border security laws. The efforts resulted in the identification of 19,024 violations: 11,268 related to residency, 4,773 concerning border security, and 2,983 involving labour laws.

During this period, authorities intercepted 1,212 individuals attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally. Of these, 25% were Yemenis, 73% Ethiopians, and the remaining 2% belonged to other nationalities. Additionally, 122 people were apprehended for trying to exit the Kingdom unlawfully.

The ministry detained a total of 24,107 expatriates (21,176 men and 2,931 women) who are currently undergoing procedures for regulation enforcement. Among them, 15,970 individuals have been instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates for travel documentation. Meanwhile, 2,633 have been advised to arrange their departure bookings.

Furthermore, authorities repatriated a total of 10,537 individuals during this period. Twenty-two people were arrested for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. The Ministry has issued a stern warning regarding such activities.

The Ministry of Interior has cautioned that facilitating illegal entry into the Kingdom or providing shelter or assistance can lead to severe penalties. Offenders may face up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Vehicles used for transport or houses used for shelter may also be confiscated as part of the penalties.

The ministry emphasised that these actions are considered major crimes warranting arrest. It encourages citizens to report any violations by calling specific numbers: 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions; and 999 or 996 elsewhere in the Kingdom.

With inputs from SPA