Riyadh: In a series of inspection campaigns conducted across Saudi Arabia from March 19 to 25, the Ministry of Interior recorded 11,967 violations related to residency, labor, and border security laws. These violations included 7,650 related to residency, 2,952 to border security, and 1,365 to labor laws.

According to Saudi Press Agency, border authorities apprehended 1,140 individuals attempting to cross into the Kingdom illegally. Among these individuals, 26% were Yemenis, 71% Ethiopians, and 3% from other nationalities. Additionally, 42 people were arrested for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally.

A total of 17 people were arrested for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, and employing violators. Currently, 32,957 expatriates, comprising 29,316 men and 3,641 women, are undergoing procedures to ensure compliance with regulations.

The enforcement efforts also led to the detention of 23,238 individuals who were instructed to contact their countries' embassies or consulates to obtain the necessary travel documents. Furthermore, 3,416 individuals were advised to make travel arrangements, and 5,111 were repatriated.

The Ministry of Interior issued a warning that anyone aiding illegal entry into the Kingdom, transporting individuals within its territory, or providing shelter or assistance, may face penalties of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SAR1 million. Vehicles and properties used in these activities may also be confiscated.

The ministry highlighted that such acts are considered major crimes warranting arrest and encouraged the public to report any violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.