In a significant crackdown on illegal immigration and labor violations, Saudi authorities arrested a total of 21,049 individuals in just one week, according to a report from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) released on Saturday.
The extensive operation targeted breaches of residency, work, and border security regulations. The breakdown of arrests includes 13,209 individuals for violating residency laws, 5,177 for illegal border crossings, and 2,663 for labor-related infractions.
Among those detained for attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally, the report indicated that 56 percent were Ethiopian, 43 percent Yemeni, and 1 percent from other nationalities. Additionally, 42 individuals were apprehended for trying to cross into neighboring countries, while five were detained for their involvement in transporting or harboring illegal entrants.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning against facilitating illegal entry into the Kingdom. Individuals found guilty of aiding illegal immigration, including providing transportation or shelter to violators, could face severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to 15 years, fines up to SR1 million ($260,000), and confiscation of vehicles and property.
The crackdown reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to enforce its immigration and labor laws rigorously. Residents are encouraged to report suspected violations using the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other areas of the country.
Saudi Arabia continues to address illegal immigration and labor violations as part of its broader strategy to maintain border security and uphold labor regulations, signaling its commitment to stringent enforcement in these areas.
