Saudi Arabia's security forces, in cooperation with government agencies, arrested 14,165 illegal residents during joint field campaigns conducted between August 27 and September 2, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Interior.
The arrests included 7,121 individuals for residency violations, 3,636 for border security infractions, and 3,408 for labor law breaches. A total of 12,363 unauthorized residents were deported, while 18,937 violators were directed to their diplomatic missions to secure travel documents. Another 3,240 individuals were referred to finalize their travel arrangements.
Authorities also intercepted 1,315 individuals attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. Of these, 58 percent were Ethiopian, 41 percent were Yemeni, and one percent belonged to other nationalities. Additionally, 42 people were arrested while trying to exit the country illegally, and 21 individuals were detained for assisting violators with transportation, shelter, or employment.
Currently, 29,773 expatriates, consisting of 27,845 men and 1,928 women, are undergoing administrative procedures to enforce legal measures against them.
The Ministry of Interior reiterated that aiding unauthorized entry, providing transit, or offering shelter within the Kingdom is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million. Vehicles and properties used in these activities are also subject to confiscation. Violations can be reported by dialing 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 and 996 in other regions.
