Over 19,700 Violations Of Residency And Labour Laws Recorded In Saudi Arabia In One Week

In a recent campaign to enforce residency, labour, and border security laws in Saudi Arabia, authorities identified 19,790 violations between November 27 and December 3. These included 12,252 residency-related breaches, 4,384 border security infractions, and 3,154 labour law violations. The Ministry of Interior conducted these inspections to ensure compliance across the Kingdom.

Border officials detained 1,661 individuals attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. Among them, 45% were Yemenis, 54% Ethiopians, and the remaining 1% from other nationalities. Additionally, authorities apprehended 49 people trying to exit the Kingdom unlawfully.

The Ministry of Interior has taken action against those involved in facilitating illegal activities. Fifteen individuals were arrested for transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. This highlights the government's commitment to maintaining strict control over immigration and residency regulations.

A total of 31,292 expatriates are currently undergoing procedures to enforce regulations. This group includes 29,410 men and 1,882 women. Meanwhile, authorities have detained 21,805 individuals for regulation breaches and instructed them to contact their embassies or consulates for travel documents.

Furthermore, officials advised 5,370 individuals to arrange their travel plans while successfully repatriating another 11,148 people. These measures aim to streamline the process of handling expatriates who violate local laws.

Penalties for Violations

The Ministry has issued a stern warning regarding penalties for those aiding illegal entry into Saudi Arabia. Individuals found guilty may face up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Vehicles used for transport and properties used as shelters could also be confiscated.

The ministry stressed that such actions are considered major crimes warranting arrest. They urged the public to report any violations by calling designated numbers: 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions or 999 and 996 elsewhere in the Kingdom.

With inputs from SPA