Saudi Arabia Arrests 17,257 Violators of Immigration and Labor Laws

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior reported the apprehension of around 17,257 individuals across various regions within a week-long security crackdown.

Types of Violations and Arrests

The arrests comprised 11,183 individuals violating residency regulations, 3,765 breaching border security rules, and 2,309 breaking labor laws. Additionally, 481 individuals were apprehended attempting to cross into the Kingdom, predominantly Yemenis (38%), Ethiopians (60%), and a small percentage of other nationalities. Among these, 62 violators were caught while attempting to exit Saudi Arabia through border crossings.

Arrests of Facilitators and Current Procedures

Eight individuals were apprehended for aiding violators, involved in transporting and sheltering them. Presently, 51,884 violators are undergoing due process for regulation breaches, with 45,672 men and 6,212 women among them.

Actions Taken and Legal Consequences

Of the violators, 45,773 have been referred to their respective diplomatic missions for travel documents, 2,394 for finalizing travel reservations, and 9,369 deported. The Ministry of Interior stressed severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and fines up to SR1 million, along with confiscation of transport and accommodation, for those aiding infiltrators into the Kingdom.