Saudi Arabia Arrests 21,997 Illegals in One Week for Breaching Residency, Work and Border Security Laws
The Saudi Press Agency reported that the majority of those arrested were Ethiopians, with Yemenis being the second largest group.
In a significant crackdown on immigration violations, Saudi authorities have apprehended 21,997 individuals in one week for breaching residency, work, and border security laws.
According to figures released by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), these arrests underscore the Kingdom's commitment to maintaining the integrity of its borders and labor market.Of the total number arrested, a substantial 13,434 were detained for violations of residency laws, representing the largest group among those apprehended.
An additional 4,697 individuals were taken into custody for attempting to cross the border irregularly, while 3,866 arrests pertained to labor-related issues.The data revealed that amongst the 1,787 people who attempted to enter Saudi Arabia clandestinely, Ethiopians accounted for 64%, followed by Yemenis at 35%, and a negligible 1% of other nationalities.
Furthermore, 27 individuals were intercepted while attempting to cross into neighboring countries, and 18 were apprehended for facilitating or participating in the transportation and harboring of violators.The Saudi Ministry of Interior has emphasized that those found guilty of assisting in the unauthorized entry of individuals into the Kingdom, including providing transport or shelter, could face severe penalties.
These include a maximum sentence of 15 years' imprisonment, fines of up to SR1 million (approximately $267,000), and the confiscation of vehicles and property used for such activities.Citizens are advised that suspected violations can be reported through the toll-free number 911 in Makkah and Riyadh regions, while elsewhere in the Kingdom the numbers 999 or 996 should be dialed.
These measures reflect Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to secure its borders and uphold the law.
According to figures released by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), these arrests underscore the Kingdom's commitment to maintaining the integrity of its borders and labor market.Of the total number arrested, a substantial 13,434 were detained for violations of residency laws, representing the largest group among those apprehended.
An additional 4,697 individuals were taken into custody for attempting to cross the border irregularly, while 3,866 arrests pertained to labor-related issues.The data revealed that amongst the 1,787 people who attempted to enter Saudi Arabia clandestinely, Ethiopians accounted for 64%, followed by Yemenis at 35%, and a negligible 1% of other nationalities.
Furthermore, 27 individuals were intercepted while attempting to cross into neighboring countries, and 18 were apprehended for facilitating or participating in the transportation and harboring of violators.The Saudi Ministry of Interior has emphasized that those found guilty of assisting in the unauthorized entry of individuals into the Kingdom, including providing transport or shelter, could face severe penalties.
These include a maximum sentence of 15 years' imprisonment, fines of up to SR1 million (approximately $267,000), and the confiscation of vehicles and property used for such activities.Citizens are advised that suspected violations can be reported through the toll-free number 911 in Makkah and Riyadh regions, while elsewhere in the Kingdom the numbers 999 or 996 should be dialed.
These measures reflect Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to secure its borders and uphold the law.
