Saudi Arabia Apprehends Over 22,000 Violators Of Residency And Labor Laws In One Week

The Ministry of Interior recently conducted a series of inspection campaigns across Saudi Arabia from September 26 to October 02. These efforts aimed to ensure adherence to residency, labor, and border security laws. The inspections uncovered a total of 22,094 violations, including 13,731 related to residency, 4,873 concerning border security, and 3,490 involving labor laws.

During the same period, authorities intercepted 1,337 individuals attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally. Among them, 44% were identified as Yemenis, 53% as Ethiopians, and the remaining 3% belonged to other nationalities. Additionally, 37 individuals were apprehended for trying to exit the Kingdom unlawfully.

The Ministry has taken action against those facilitating illegal activities. Twenty-three people were arrested for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Currently, procedures are underway for enforcing regulations on 13,979 expatriates—12,610 men and 1,369 women.

Authorities detained a total of 6,683 individuals for violating laws. These individuals have been instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates to secure appropriate travel documents. Meanwhile, arrangements for departure bookings have been advised for 2,461 people.

A significant number of expatriates have already been repatriated; specifically, 10,943 individuals have been sent back to their home countries. The Ministry has issued a stern warning regarding penalties for those who facilitate illegal entry into the Kingdom.

Penalties include up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Vehicles used in such activities may be confiscated along with any properties used for sheltering violators. The Ministry emphasized that these acts are serious crimes warranting arrest.

Public Reporting Encouraged

The Ministry encourages citizens to report any violations they observe. Residents in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions can call 911 while those in other areas should use numbers 999 or 996 for reporting purposes.

This initiative underscores the Kingdom's commitment to maintaining law and order by addressing illegal activities effectively while ensuring public cooperation in safeguarding national security.

With inputs from SPA