Saudi Arabia arrests over 14,000 residency, border and labour violators in nationwide crackdown in one week

Saudi Arabian authorities conducted a nationwide crackdown on residency, border security, and labor law violations between August 13 and 19, arresting 14,260 individuals in a single week, according to the Ministry of Interior. The arrests were part of joint efforts by security forces and government agencies.

Out of the detained individuals, 6,900 were cited for residency violations, 3,982 for border security breaches, and 3,378 for labor law infractions. Additionally, 1,524 people were apprehended attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally, with Ethiopians making up 63% of these arrests, followed by Yemenis at 36%.

Thirty-eight individuals were detained for leaving the kingdom illegally, and 24 faced charges for allegedly transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. The ministry reported that 13,724 people were deported, while 18,808 were referred to their respective diplomatic missions for travel documents, and 5,386 were in the process of arranging travel.

A total of 31,922 expatriates, comprising 29,961 men and 1,961 women, were undergoing enforcement-related procedures. The ministry cautioned that those involved in facilitating illegal entry, transporting, or harboring violators could face up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million. Vehicles used for such activities and properties sheltering violators may also be confiscated.

The public was urged to report violations via security hotlines. Saudi Arabia has arrested nearly 15,000 individuals for residency, labor, and border law violations within a week, deporting 10,827 illegal residents.