Saudi Arabia arrests 21,997 violators of laws in a week in nationwide crackdown

Dubai: Saudi Arabia has arrested 21,997 violators of residency, border, and labor laws during a weeklong crackdown across the Kingdom, the Ministry of Interior announced on Saturday.

The joint campaign, conducted between August 7 and August 13 by security forces in coordination with government agencies, targeted illegal residents and those aiding them.

Of the total arrests, 13,434 individuals violated residency laws, 4,697 breached border security regulations, and 3,866 broke labor laws, the ministry said.

Authorities also reported 1,787 people detained while attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally.

Among them, 35 percent were Yemeni nationals, 64 percent Ethiopian nationals, and 1 percent from other countries. Another 27 individuals were arrested while trying to leave Saudi Arabia unlawfully.

In addition, 18,149 violators were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, while 2,973 were completing travel reservations. So far, 12,861 violators have been deported, according to the ministry.

Authorities also arrested 18 people accused of transporting, sheltering, or employing illegal residents. 

Currently, 25,439 expatriates, including 22,837 men and 2,602 women, remain under legal procedures pending deportation or regularization.

The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone found facilitating illegal entry, providing transportation, housing, or other assistance to violators faces penalties of up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SR1 million. Vehicles and properties used in such activities will also be confiscated.