RIYADH: Saudi Arabian authorities have conducted a significant crackdown, resulting in the arrest of 15,812 individuals within the span of just one week for various violations related to residency, work, and border security regulations, according to an official report.
The report, issued by the Saudi Press Agency, delineates the nature of the arrests: 9,801 people were detained for breaching residency laws, 3,804 individuals were held for illegal border crossing attempts, and an additional 2,207 were apprehended due to labor-related issues.
Among the 827 people caught attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally, a breakdown of nationalities indicates that 61 percent were of Yemeni origin, 18 percent Ethiopian, while the remaining 21 percent hailed from various other nationalities.
Furthermore, the report notes that an additional 45 people were intercepted while attempting to cross into neighboring countries, and 15 were arrested for their involvement in facilitating the transportation and harboring of residency violators.
Saudi Authorities Takes Swift Action in Response to Violations
Saudi authorities have taken swift action in response to these violations, with 37,221 offenders already transferred to their respective diplomatic missions to facilitate the issuance of travel documents. An additional 2,017 individuals were transferred to complete travel reservations, while 9,576 have been deported to their home countries.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning to those involved in facilitating illegal entry into the Kingdom. Those found guilty of such activities, including providing transportation and shelter to violators, could face severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to 15 years, hefty fines of up to SR1 million ($260,000), or the confiscation of vehicles and property.
Saudi authorities encourage the reporting of suspected violations through dedicated toll-free numbers: 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions across the Kingdom. These measures underscore the nation’s commitment to enforcing residency and border security regulations, ensuring the integrity of its immigration system.
