Riyadh: In a recent series of inspection campaigns across Saudi Arabia conducted between February 26 and March 4, the Ministry of Interior documented 21,022 violations related to residency, labor, and border security laws. Of these, 15,038 were linked to residency issues, 3,484 to border security breaches, and 2,500 to labor law infringements.

According to Saudi Press Agency, border authorities intercepted 1,466 individuals attempting illegal entry into the Kingdom. The breakdown of these individuals included 32% Yemenis, 67% Ethiopians, and 1% from other nationalities. Additionally, 33 individuals were arrested for attempting to exit the Kingdom unlawfully.

The ministry also reported the arrest of 15 individuals involved in transporting, sheltering, and employing violators. Currently, 21,178 expatriates, comprising 19,665 men and 1,513 women, are undergoing procedures to enforce compliance with the regulations.

Furthermore, 13,854 violators were detained and instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates to secure proper travel documents. Out of these, 2,187 were advised to arrange their travel, while 8,511 were successfully repatriated.

The Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning that facilitating illegal entry, providing transportation, or sheltering violators can result in severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SAR1 million. Confiscation of vehicles and properties used in such activities is also a possibility.

The ministry reiterated that these violations are considered major crimes warranting arrest and urged the public to report any suspicious activities by contacting 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.