Saudi Arabia Records Over 18,600 Violations Of Residency And Labour Laws In One Week

During a series of inspection campaigns in Saudi Arabia from September 25 to October 1, the Ministry of Interior identified 18,673 violations related to residency, labour, and border security laws. These included 10,673 residency infractions, 4,178 labour law breaches, and 3,822 border security violations. The authorities are actively addressing these issues to ensure compliance with national regulations.

Border officials detained 1,479 individuals attempting illegal entry into the Kingdom. Among them, 59% were Yemenis, 40% Ethiopians, and the remaining 1% from various other nationalities. Additionally, 52 people were apprehended for trying to exit the country unlawfully. These efforts highlight the ongoing challenges in managing border security effectively.

The Ministry of Interior has taken firm action against those involved in facilitating illegal activities. Seventeen individuals were arrested for transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. The ministry has issued a stern warning that such actions could lead to severe penalties. Offenders may face up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million.

Authorities have also focused on expatriates currently undergoing procedures to enforce regulations. A total of 31,015 expatriates are involved in this process, comprising 29,172 men and 1,843 women. Meanwhile, 25,478 individuals have been detained for regulatory breaches and instructed to liaise with their respective embassies or consulates for necessary travel documentation.

Efforts to repatriate individuals are ongoing. Authorities have advised 2,139 people to arrange their travel plans promptly. In addition to these measures, a total of 11,544 individuals have already been repatriated as part of the enforcement process. This underscores the commitment to uphold immigration laws while ensuring orderly repatriation procedures.

The ministry has emphasized that vehicles used for illegal transport and properties used for sheltering violators may be confiscated as part of the penalties. Such acts are classified as major crimes warranting arrest. The public is encouraged to report any violations by contacting specific emergency numbers: 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions; or 999 and 996 elsewhere in the Kingdom.

The Ministry's comprehensive approach aims to maintain strict adherence to residency and border laws while ensuring public safety across Saudi Arabia.

With inputs from SPA