In a recent nationwide inspection blitz, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has unearthed a staggering 19,817 violations spanning residency, border security, and labor laws. The campaign, which ran from July 11 to July 17, 2024, aimed to enforce stringent regulations across the Kingdom.
Of the total infractions, 12,436 were related to residency issues, 4,881 pertained to border security, and 2,500 involved labor law breaches. Additionally, 1,389 individuals were apprehended for attempting illegal entry into Saudi Arabia. The majority of these individuals were from Yemen and Ethiopia, with a small fraction hailing from other countries. Another 48 individuals faced arrest for attempting to leave the Kingdom unlawfully.
The operation also targeted those facilitating illegal activities. Nine individuals were detained for their roles in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Among the 17,067 expatriates currently in the process of regulation enforcement, 7,139 were held for law violations and directed to their respective embassies for proper travel documents. Another 4,242 were instructed to arrange their departures, while 14,471 were deported.
The Ministry has issued a stern warning against aiding illegal entry or providing any form of support to violators. Offenders could face up to 15 years in prison and fines up to SR1 million, with vehicles and properties used in such activities subject to seizure.
The Ministry encourages the public to report any violations by calling 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and 999 or 996 elsewhere in the Kingdom.
