Ministry Of Interior Reports 19,418 Violations Of Residency, Labor And Border Security Laws In One Week

The Ministry of Interior recently carried out inspection campaigns across Saudi Arabia from January 2 to January 8. These efforts aimed to ensure adherence to residency, labour, and border security regulations. The inspections revealed a total of 19,418 violations, with 11,787 related to residency, 4,380 concerning border security, and 3,251 involving labour laws.

During the same period, authorities intercepted 1,221 individuals attempting illegal entry into the Kingdom. Among these, 42% were identified as Yemenis, 56% as Ethiopians, and the remaining 2% belonged to other nationalities. Additionally, 136 individuals were apprehended for trying to exit the Kingdom unlawfully.

In connection with these violations, nineteen people were detained for their roles in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Currently, procedures are underway for 33,576 expatriates—comprising 30,261 men and 3,315 women—to enforce compliance with regulations.

Of those detained for legal breaches, 23,991 have been instructed to liaise with their respective embassies or consulates to secure appropriate travel documents. Meanwhile, arrangements for departure bookings have been advised for another group of 3,869 individuals. Furthermore, authorities have successfully repatriated a total of 10,319 expatriates.

The Ministry has issued a stern warning regarding the facilitation of illegal entry into Saudi Arabia. Individuals found guilty of such acts face severe penalties including up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Additionally, vehicles used in these activities or properties used for shelter may be confiscated.

The Ministry emphasised that facilitating illegal entry is considered a major crime warranting arrest. Citizens are encouraged to report any violations by contacting specific emergency numbers: dialling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and Eastern regions; elsewhere in the Kingdom they should call either 999 or 996.

With inputs from SPA