Saudi Arabia Apprehends Over 20,688 Violators Of Residency And Labor Laws In Recent Inspections

The Ministry of Interior recently carried out inspection campaigns across Saudi Arabia from April 10 to 16. These efforts aimed to ensure adherence to residency, labour, and border security laws. The inspections revealed a total of 20,688 violations: 12,372 related to residency, 4,750 concerning border security, and 3,566 involving labour laws.

During these operations, authorities intercepted 1,264 individuals attempting illegal entry into the Kingdom. Among them, 36% were Yemenis, 61% Ethiopians, and the remaining 3% from other nationalities. Additionally, 93 individuals were apprehended for trying to exit the Kingdom unlawfully.

The Ministry has detained 32,417 expatriates as part of enforcing regulations. This group includes 30,038 men and 2,379 women. Of these detainees, 24,811 have been instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates for travel documentation. Meanwhile, 2,936 individuals are making arrangements for their departure.

Authorities also arrested twenty-seven people involved in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. The Ministry emphasised that facilitating illegal entry or providing assistance to such individuals could lead to severe penalties. These include up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million.

The Ministry highlighted the importance of public cooperation in reporting violations. Residents can report any suspicious activities by dialling specific numbers: 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions; and either 999 or 996 elsewhere in the Kingdom.

In addition to detentions and arrests during the campaign period, a total of 12,235 expatriates were repatriated. The Ministry reiterated that actions like transporting or sheltering violators are considered major crimes warranting arrest.

Vehicles used for illegal transport or houses used for sheltering violators may be confiscated as part of the penalties. The Ministry's firm stance underscores its commitment to maintaining law and order within the Kingdom's borders.

With inputs from SPA