In a sweeping nationwide operation, Saudi security forces apprehended 21,971 individuals in just one week, targeting violators of residency, labor, and border laws. The joint field campaigns, executed in collaboration with various government bodies between October 10 and 16, spanned urban hubs and border regions alike.
The arrests included 13,186 people breaching residency laws, 5,427 border law violators, and 3,358 labor law offenders, as detailed by the Ministry of Interior. Among those detained, 1,421 individuals were intercepted while attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. A breakdown of the nationalities shows 64% were Ethiopians, 34% Yemenis, and the remaining 2% from other origins. Security forces also detained 53 people for attempting to exit the Kingdom illegally.
Eighteen individuals accused of facilitating illegal activities—providing transportation, shelter, or employment to violators—were taken into custody. Meanwhile, 15,775 expatriates, including 13,885 men and 1,890 women, are undergoing legal processes in preparation for deportation or other penalties.
As part of the repatriation effort, 8,370 offenders were sent to their diplomatic missions to secure travel documents, while 2,054 completed final travel bookings. In total, 12,355 individuals have already been deported.
Saudi authorities issued a stern warning against harboring or aiding illegal entrants. Penalties for violators include up to 15 years in prison, fines reaching SR1 million, and confiscation of any vehicles or properties used in such activities.
Citizens and residents were urged to report any violations by contacting 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province or dialing 999 and 996 in other areas of the Kingdom.
