Saudi Arabia Arrests Over 22,500 in Nationwide Crackdown on Residency, Labor, and Border Violations
RIYADH In a major week-long security operation, Saudi authorities have arrested more than 22,500 individuals across the Kingdom for violating residency, labor, and border security laws, the Ministry of Interior announced on Wednesday.The nationwide crackdown conducted through joint field campaigns across various regions targeted illegal residents, workers, and border infiltrators.
According to official figures:
- 13,800 individuals were detained for violating residency laws
- 5,200 for breaching border security regulations
- 3,400 for labor-related offenses
Among those apprehended, 1,687 individuals were caught attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally 61% of them were Ethiopian nationals, 38% Yemeni nationals, and 1% from other countries. Additionally, 40 individuals were arrested while attempting to illegally exit Saudi Arabia.Authorities also detained 15 individuals accused of facilitating illegal activities, including providing shelter and employment to violators.The Ministry confirmed that 18,300 violators are currently undergoing legal procedures 15,700 men and 2,500 women. Of these:
- 11,000 have already been deported
- 11,000 are being processed by diplomatic missions for travel documentation
- 3,200 are awaiting flight arrangements for deportation
In a strong statement, the Ministry warned that assisting violators whether through transportation, employment, or shelter constitutes a major offense under Saudi law, punishable by:
- Up to 15 years in prison
- Fines of up to 1 million Saudi riyals
- Confiscation of any vehicles or property used
- Public naming and shaming of offenders
Authorities urged all residents and citizens to report violations via the emergency hotline 911 in Riyadh, Makkah, and the Eastern Province, or 999 and 996 in other regions.The Ministry emphasized that the Kingdom will continue its firm stance against illegal residency, labor violations, and unauthorized border crossings to preserve national security and legal order.
verified from sources : saudigazette