Saudi authorities arrested 22,663 individuals in a week-long crackdown on violations related to residency, employment, and border security, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Mass Arrests for Violations
The arrests included 13,799 individuals detained for breaking residency laws, while 5,594 were caught attempting to illegally cross borders. An additional 3,270 individuals were held for labor-related offenses.
Among those arrested for attempting to illegally enter Saudi Arabia, the majority—63%—were Ethiopian nationals, while 36% were Yemeni, and 1% belonged to other nationalities.
Authorities also detained 184 people who were trying to exit the Kingdom illegally. Additionally, 14 individuals were arrested for transporting or sheltering violators, a crime that carries severe penalties.
Strict Legal Consequences
The Ministry of Interior reaffirmed its strict stance on illegal entry and border violations. Officials warned that anyone found facilitating illegal immigration—including transportation or harboring violators—could face up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SR1 million ($260,000).
Authorities urged residents to report suspected violations through the toll-free number 911 in Makkah and Riyadh or 999/996 in other regions of the Kingdom.
Ongoing Crackdown on Illegal Immigration
The latest arrests are part of Saudi Arabia’s continued efforts to strengthen border security and enforce immigration laws. The Kingdom has intensified operations to curb illegal migration, regulate the labor market, and ensure compliance with residency laws.
Saudi officials emphasized that these measures aim to enhance national security and maintain economic stability while preventing unauthorized employment and illegal border crossings.
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