Saudi Arabia Reports Over 21,600 Violations Of Residency And Labour Laws In One Week

During a recent inspection campaign in Saudi Arabia from September 11 to 17, the Ministry of Interior identified 21,638 violations related to residency, labor, and border security laws. These included 12,958 residency infractions, 4,540 border security breaches, and 4,140 labor law violations. The authorities are actively addressing these issues to ensure compliance with national regulations.

Border authorities detained 1,391 individuals attempting illegal entry into Saudi Arabia. Among them, 54% were Yemenis, 45% Ethiopians, and the remaining 1% from other nationalities. Additionally, 31 people were arrested for trying to exit the Kingdom unlawfully. These efforts highlight the ongoing challenges in maintaining secure borders.

The Ministry of Interior has also taken action against those facilitating illegal activities. Nineteen individuals were arrested for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. This underscores the government's commitment to enforcing laws and deterring illegal activities within its borders.

The ministry issued a stern warning regarding penalties for facilitating illegal entry or providing assistance to violators. Offenders could face up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Vehicles used for transport and properties used for shelter may be confiscated as part of these stringent measures.

Currently, procedures are underway for 32,149 expatriates who violated regulations. This group includes 29,265 men and 2,884 women. Authorities are working diligently to process these cases according to established legal frameworks.

Repatriation Process

A total of 25,533 individuals have been detained for regulatory violations and instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates for travel documents. Meanwhile, arrangements are being made for the repatriation of others; so far, 13,375 have been sent back to their home countries.

The ministry emphasized that providing shelter or assistance to violators is a serious crime warranting arrest. They urged citizens to report any suspicious activities by calling designated emergency numbers: 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions; or 999 and 996 elsewhere in the Kingdom.

In addition to those detained for documentation purposes, another group of 1,610 individuals was advised to make necessary travel arrangements promptly. This step is part of broader efforts to manage immigration effectively while ensuring adherence to legal standards.

With inputs from SPA