Riyadh: In a recent inspection campaign conducted across Saudi Arabia between August 13 and 19, the Ministry of Interior documented a total of 14,260 violations related to residency, labor, and border security laws. This initiative aimed to ensure compliance with the Kingdom's regulations.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the violations included 6,900 cases related to residency issues, 3,982 related to border security, and 3,378 pertaining to labor laws. Border authorities detained 1,524 individuals attempting to illegally enter Saudi Arabia, with 36% identified as Yemenis, 63% as Ethiopians, and 1% from other nationalities. Furthermore, 38 people were arrested for attempting to leave the Kingdom unlawfully.

Authorities also apprehended 24 individuals involved in the transportation, sheltering, and employment of violators. Currently, 31,922 expatriates, including 29,961 men and 1,961 women, are undergoing procedures to enforce compliance with the regulations.

Moreover, 18,808 individuals who breached the regulations were instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates to obtain valid travel documents. In addition, 5,386 individuals were advised to arrange their travel plans, while 13,724 were successfully repatriated.

The Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning that those who facilitate the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom, transport them within its borders, or provide them with shelter or assistance may face severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Additionally, vehicles and properties used in these activities may be confiscated.

The ministry stressed that such actions are considered major crimes warranting arrest and urged the public to report any violations by calling 911 in the regions of Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern provinces, or 999 and 996 in other areas of the Kingdom.