The Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia has recently announced the arrest of 22,373 illegal residents during inspection raids conducted across all regions of the country in the span of a week. These arrests were made as part of joint field security campaigns carried out by security forces and government agencies between Sept. 5 and Sept. 11. Among those arrested, 14,216 individuals were found to be in violation of the Residency Law, 4,943 violated the Border Security Law, and 3,214 violated the Labor Law. Additionally, 1,507 individuals were apprehended while trying to cross the Saudi border, with the majority being Yemeni and Ethiopian nationals.
In addition to the arrests, seven individuals were also taken into custody for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, and employing violators. Currently, 15,536 expatriates, including 14,203 men and 1,333 women, are undergoing legal procedures as part of punitive measures. Of these, 6,395 violators have been referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, while 2,030 others have been referred to complete their travel reservations. Furthermore, 13,475 violators have been deported from the country.
The Ministry of Interior has issued a warning that anyone involved in facilitating the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom, transporting them, providing shelter or any other assistance, may face severe penalties. These penalties include up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million. Additionally, vehicles used for transportation or houses used for providing shelter may be confiscated. The ministry has urged the public to report any violations by calling emergency numbers specific to their region.
It is crucial for the Ministry of Interior to conduct regular inspection raids to identify and arrest illegal residents in Saudi Arabia. By collaborating with security forces and government agencies, they have been able to apprehend a significant number of violators of residency, border security, and labor laws. This proactive approach ensures that individuals who do not have legal status in the country are identified and dealt with accordingly.
The arrests made during the recent inspection raids highlight the scale of the issue of illegal residents in Saudi Arabia. With over 22,000 individuals apprehended in just a week, it is evident that there is a considerable number of people living in the country without proper documentation. The ministry’s efforts to crackdown on illegal residents send a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated.
In addition to the arrests, the ministry has also taken action against those who facilitate illegal entry, transport, or shelter individuals in violation of the law. By holding these individuals accountable and imposing severe penalties, the ministry aims to deter such activities and maintain the security and integrity of the country’s borders. It is essential for all members of society to report any violations they witness to ensure the safety and security of the Kingdom.
As part of the legal procedures, the violators are being referred to their respective diplomatic missions for travel documents or travel reservations. Ultimately, the goal is to deport these individuals and prevent them from re-entering the country illegally. The ministry’s strict measures and warnings serve as a deterrent to those who may consider engaging in illegal activities within Saudi Arabia. By upholding the law and enforcing penalties, the ministry is working towards safeguarding the country’s borders and maintaining a secure environment for all residents.
