Saudi Arabia Apprehends Over 20,000 Violators Of Residency And Labour Laws In Recent Inspections

Between October 17 and October 23, the Ministry of Interior carried out inspection campaigns across Saudi Arabia. These efforts aimed to ensure adherence to residency, labour, and border security laws. As a result, authorities recorded 20,896 violations: 11,930 related to residency, 5,649 concerning border security, and 3,317 involving labour laws.

Attempts to cross into Saudi Arabia illegally involved 1,374 individuals. Among these, 43% were identified as Yemenis, 55% as Ethiopians, and the remaining 2% belonged to other nationalities. Additionally, authorities apprehended 107 individuals attempting to exit the Kingdom unlawfully.

A total of 16,653 expatriates are currently undergoing procedures for regulation enforcement. This group includes 14,726 men and 1,927 women. Of these individuals, 8,251 have been detained for law violations and instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates for travel documentation.

The Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning against facilitating illegal entry into the Kingdom. Those who transport or shelter violators face severe penalties. The punishment can include up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Vehicles used for transportation or houses used for shelter may also be confiscated.

Efforts have been made to repatriate violators. A total of 11,774 individuals have been sent back to their home countries. Meanwhile, another group of 2,626 people has been advised to arrange bookings for their departure from Saudi Arabia.

The ministry emphasised that aiding illegal activities is a serious crime warranting arrest. It urged citizens to report any violations by calling designated numbers: 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions; and either 999 or 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.

Authorities also arrested twenty-four individuals involved in transporting, sheltering or employing those violating laws. These arrests highlight ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities within the country.

With inputs from SPA