Saudi Arabia Apprehends 20,749 Violators Of Residency And Labor Laws In Recent Inspections

The Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia recently carried out inspection campaigns from February 27 to March 5. These efforts aimed to ensure adherence to residency, labour, and border security laws. The inspections revealed a total of 20,749 violations across the Kingdom. Among these, 13,871 were related to residency, 3,517 to border security, and 3,361 involved breaches of labour laws.

During this period, authorities intercepted 1,051 individuals attempting to enter the Kingdom unlawfully. Of these individuals, 43% were identified as Yemenis and 54% as Ethiopians. The remaining 3% belonged to various other nationalities. Additionally, 90 people were apprehended for trying to exit the Kingdom illegally.

Twelve individuals were arrested for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Currently, procedures are underway for 40,173 expatriates (35,862 men and 4,311 women) to enforce regulations. Out of these expatriates, 32,375 have been detained for violating laws and instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates for travel documentation.

The Ministry has also directed 2,576 individuals to arrange bookings for their departure from the Kingdom. Meanwhile, a total of 10,024 expatriates have already been repatriated following the enforcement actions.

Penalties for Facilitating Illegal Activities

The Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning regarding the facilitation of illegal entry into Saudi Arabia. Those found guilty of aiding such activities may face severe penalties. These include up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR 1 million. Furthermore, vehicles used in transportation or houses used for sheltering violators may be confiscated.

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

With inputs from SPA