Saudi authorities arrested 15,591 people in one week for breaching residency, work, and border security regulations, according to a report from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Breakdown of Arrests
The arrests comprised 7,759 individuals for violations of residency laws, 4,488 for illegal border crossing attempts, and 3,344 for labor-related issues. Among those arrested for illegal entry, 53 percent were Ethiopian, 46 percent Yemeni, and 1 percent were of other nationalities. Additionally, 58 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 17 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.
Penalties for Facilitating Illegal Entry
The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone found facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for up to 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($267,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.
Reporting Violations
Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.
