In a sweeping operation across Saudi Arabia, authorities detained 21,971 individuals for violating various residency, border, and labor laws between October 10 and October 16. These arrests were part of coordinated efforts involving security forces and government agencies.
The Ministry of Interior revealed that the detainees included 13,186 individuals in breach of residency laws, 5,427 border law violators, and 3,358 who broke labor regulations. Among those arrested were 1,421 people attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally, predominantly Yemeni and Ethiopian nationals. Fifty-three individuals were apprehended for attempting to flee the country without proper authorization.
In addition, 18 people were taken into custody for their roles in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Over 15,000 expatriates, consisting of 13,885 men and 1,890 women, are currently undergoing legal proceedings as part of the punitive measures.
As part of the process, 8,370 violators have been referred to their respective diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, and 12,355 individuals have already been deported. The Ministry of Interior issued a stark warning: aiding illegal entry or providing shelter and transportation to violators could result in up to 15 years in prison, fines reaching SR1 million, and the confiscation of vehicles or properties involved.
Citizens are encouraged to report violations by contacting designated hotlines in their regions.
