Riyadh: In inspection campaigns conducted across Saudi Arabia from January 1 to 7, the Ministry of Interior reported a total of 18,836 violations of residency, labor, and border security laws. The violations comprised 11,710 residency-related offenses, 4,239 border security infractions, and 2,887 labor law breaches.
According to Saudi Press Agency, border authorities detained 1,741 individuals attempting to illegally enter the Kingdom. Among these, 39% were identified as Yemenis, 60% as Ethiopians, and 1% from other nationalities. Additionally, 46 people were arrested for trying to exit the Kingdom without authorization.
The inspection campaigns also led to the arrest of 19 people involved in the transportation, sheltering, and employment of violators. Furthermore, a significant number of expatriates, totaling 29,823, are currently undergoing procedures to enforce regulations, with 28,220 men and 1,603 women included in this group.
Meanwhile, 20,956 individuals detained for regulation violations were advised to contact their respective embassies or consulates to secure proper travel documents. Out of these, 5,201 were instructed to arrange travel plans, and 10,195 have been repatriated.
The Ministry of Interior issued a stern warning that facilitating illegal entry into the Kingdom, transporting violators within its territory, or providing them with shelter or assistance could result in severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Vehicles used for transportation and properties used for sheltering violators are subject to confiscation.
The ministry highlighted that these acts are considered major crimes warranting arrest. The public is encouraged to report any violations by contacting 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other areas of the Kingdom.