Saudi Arabia arrested 14,487 illegal residents in a week, and thousands were deported and others processed.
Saudi Arabia arrested 14,487 illegal residents during a week-long nationwide crackdown, the Saudi Interior Ministry said.The arrests were made between April 9 and 15 as part of joint inspection campaigns carried out by security forces in coordination with other government agencies.Among those detained, 7,911 people were caught in violation of residency laws, 3,588 in violation of border security regulations, and 2,988 in connection with labor law violations.Authorities said 21,127 individuals have been referred to their diplomatic missions to secure travel documents, while 11,240 people are completing travel arrangements. So far, 12,554 people have been deported.Security forces also intercepted 1,382 people who attempted to enter the Kingdom illegally.
The officials said that 38% of them were Yemeni citizens, 61% were Ethiopians, and the remaining 1% belonged to other nationalities. In addition, 43 people were arrested while trying to leave the country illegally.The ministry said that 23 people were arrested for helping violators by providing transportation, shelter or work.39,258 expatriates – including 35,460 men and 3,798 women – are currently subject to legal procedures.
The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone who assists in the illegal entry, transportation or harboring of criminals could face a prison sentence of up to 15 years and a fine of up to one million Saudi riyals. Vehicles and property used in such activities may also be confiscated.The authorities urged the public to report violations by calling 911 in Mecca, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 or 996 in other regions.
