Saudi Authorities Arrest 19,662 for Residency, Work, and Border Violations: 12,436 for Residency, 4,464 for Border Crossing, and 2,762 for Labor Issues
In one week, Saudi authorities arrested over 19,000 people for violating residency, work, and border security regulations.
Of those arrested, 12,436 were for residency law breaches, 4,464 for illegal border crossing attempts, and 2,762 for labor-related issues.
Among the 1,233 people attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally, 65% were Ethiopian, 31% Yemeni, and 4% from other nationalities.
An additional 96 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and nine were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced strict penalties for those facilitating illegal entry into the Kingdom.
Offenses include providing transportation and shelter, and could result in imprisonment for up to 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), and confiscation of vehicles and property.
Suspected violations can be reported anonymously by calling toll-free numbers 911 (Makkah and Riyadh) or 999 or 996 (other regions).