RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has arrested 14,970 people for violating residency, labour, and border security laws during a week-long nationwide inspection campaign, as the Kingdom continues to strengthen enforcement against illegal immigration and unauthorized employment.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Interior, inspection operations conducted between July 16 and July 22 targeted individuals staying or working in the Kingdom illegally, as well as those attempting to cross the country’s borders without authorization.
Thousands Held for Residency and Labour Violations
The ministry said the latest operations resulted in the arrest of:
- 7,437 people for violating the Residency Law.
- 3,991 people for violating Border Security regulations.
- 3,542 people for breaching Labour Law provisions.
Authorities described the campaign as part of ongoing nationwide efforts to uphold immigration laws, regulate the labour market, and protect national security.
Illegal Border Crossings Prevented
Security forces also detained 1,626 individuals attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally.
Official figures showed that:
- 62% were Ethiopian nationals.
- 37% were Yemeni nationals.
- 1% belonged to other nationalities.
Meanwhile, 33 people were arrested while attempting to leave the Kingdom unlawfully.
Authorities further detained 18 individuals accused of transporting, employing, sheltering, or concealing people who had violated residency, labour, or border security regulations.
More Than 30,000 Cases Under Legal Action
The Interior Ministry confirmed that 30,546 violators, including 28,557 men and 1,989 women, are currently undergoing legal procedures.
According to the ministry:
- 17,747 individuals have been referred to obtain travel documents.
- 6,113 have been referred to complete travel arrangements.
- 13,251 people have already been deported from Saudi Arabia.
Officials said legal proceedings against the remaining violators are continuing in accordance with Saudi laws.
Strict Punishments for Facilitators
The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone found assisting illegal migrants by transporting, employing, hiding, or providing shelter could face severe legal penalties.
Under Saudi law, offenders may receive:
- Up to 15 years in prison.
- Fines of up to SR1 million.
- Confiscation of vehicles, property, or other assets used in committing the offence.
The ministry stressed that facilitating illegal immigration is considered a serious crime that threatens the Kingdom’s security and public order.
