Over 20,800 Violations Of Residency And Labour Laws Recorded In Saudi Arabia Last Week

The Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia conducted inspection campaigns from August 28 to September 3. These efforts aimed to ensure adherence to residency, labour, and border security laws. During this period, authorities recorded 20,882 violations. Of these, 12,975 were related to residency, 4,185 to border security, and 3,722 to labour laws.

Border authorities detained 1,244 individuals attempting illegal entry into the Kingdom. Among them, 33% were Yemenis, 66% Ethiopians, and the remaining 1% from other nationalities. Additionally, 21 people were arrested for trying to leave the Kingdom unlawfully.

A total of 20 individuals were apprehended for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Meanwhile, procedures are underway for 29,571 expatriates—26,779 men and 2,792 women—to enforce regulations. The Ministry has been clear about the consequences of facilitating illegal activities.

The Ministry warned that those aiding illegal entry or providing shelter could face severe penalties. These include up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Vehicles used for transport and properties used for shelter may also be confiscated as part of the enforcement measures.

Currently, 22,550 individuals detained for regulation violations have been instructed to contact their embassies or consulates. This step is necessary to obtain proper travel documents. Additionally, arrangements are being made for the travel of another 2,394 individuals.

In a significant move towards compliance enforcement, authorities have already repatriated 10,895 individuals. These actions underscore the Kingdom's commitment to maintaining strict adherence to its laws.

Public Cooperation and Reporting

The Ministry emphasized that such acts are 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.

The Ministry's actions reflect a robust stance against illegal activities within its borders. By enforcing these regulations strictly and encouraging public cooperation through reporting mechanisms, Saudi Arabia aims to uphold its laws effectively.

With inputs from SPA