Saudi Arabia records 14,487 residency, labor and border violations in one week
- 2 days ago
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RIYADH, April 18 — Saudi authorities recorded 14,487 violations of residency, labor and border security laws during inspection campaigns carried out across the kingdom between April 9 and 15, the Saudi Press Agency reported, citing the Ministry of Interior.
The total included 7,911 residency violations, 3,588 border security violations and 2,988 labor-related violations.
Border authorities also apprehended 1,382 people attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally, including 38% Yemenis, 61% Ethiopians and 1% of other nationalities, the report said. Another 43 people were arrested while trying to leave the kingdom illegally.
The ministry said 23 people were arrested for transporting, sheltering or employing violators.
A total of 39,258 expatriates, including 35,460 men and 3,798 women, are currently undergoing legal procedures, while 21,127 violators were instructed to contact their embassies or consulates to obtain travel documents.
The ministry added that 11,240 people were told to make travel arrangements and 12,554 were repatriated.
Saudi authorities warned that anyone facilitating illegal entry into the kingdom, transporting violators, or providing shelter or assistance could face up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to 1 million riyals. Vehicles and properties used in such violations may also be confiscated.
The ministry urged the public to report violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Region, or 999 and 996 in other parts of the kingdom.
