Saudi Arabia deports 12,635 illegal residents in a week

Saudi security forces made 14,782 arrests over a week, according to the Ministry of Interior. These arrests were part of joint inspections with government agencies from September 10 to 16. The detainees included 7,438 who violated the Residency Law, 3,782 who broke the Border Security Law, and 3,562 who infringed on the Labor Law.

Out of the 12,635 illegal residents deported, the majority were Yemeni nationals (43%) and Ethiopian nationals (56%). Additionally, 3,834 violators were referred for travel document acquisition, while 3,834 were directed to complete travel reservations. Twenty-five individuals were apprehended while attempting to illegally exit the country.

Moreover, 23 people involved in offering transportation, shelter, or employment to violators were also arrested. Currently, 31,075 expatriates are undergoing legal measures for their violations, with 29,171 men and 1,904 women. The ministry has warned that aiding illegal entry into the Kingdom, transporting individuals on its territory, providing shelter, or other forms of assistance can result in up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million.

Vehicles used for transportation or houses used for shelter may be confiscated. The public is encouraged to report any violations by contacting the numbers 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 and 996 in other regions.