In the last week, the Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia conducted inspections that led to the arrest of 22,094 illegal residents in various regions of the country. The arrests were made between September 26 and October 2, with the majority of those arrested violating the Residency Law, Border Security Law, and Labor Law. Among those arrested, 1,337 were attempting to cross the border into the Kingdom, with the majority being Yemeni and Ethiopian nationals. Additionally, 37 people were arrested while trying to leave the Kingdom illegally.
In addition to the illegal residents, 23 individuals who were involved in transporting, sheltering, and employing violators were also arrested. As part of punitive measures, 13,979 expatriates are currently undergoing legal procedures, with 6,683 being referred to their diplomatic missions for travel documents, 2,461 referred to complete travel reservations, and 10,943 deported. The Ministry of Interior has issued a warning stating that anyone who facilitates the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom may face up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to SR1 million, and confiscation of vehicles or houses used for transportation or shelter.
To report violations, the public is encouraged to call 911 in the regions of Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 and 996 in the rest of the Kingdom. These measures are part of the Kingdom’s efforts to ensure the security and safety of its borders and residents. The Ministry of Interior is committed to addressing illegal immigration and the violation of residency laws to maintain the integrity of the country’s immigration policies.
The recent arrests highlight the ongoing challenges faced by Saudi Arabia in managing its illegal immigration problem. The Kingdom continues to crack down on violators of immigration laws to protect its borders and maintain the security and stability of the country. The Ministry of Interior’s efforts to enforce immigration laws are crucial in regulating the flow of individuals entering and leaving the Kingdom, ensuring that only those who meet the criteria for residency are permitted to stay.
The Ministry’s warning of severe penalties for those involved in facilitating illegal immigration serves as a deterrent to individuals who may consider engaging in such activities. By taking stringent measures against violators, Saudi Arabia is sending a strong message that illegal immigration will not be tolerated, and those who are found to be in violation of the law will face consequences. The Kingdom’s commitment to upholding its immigration laws demonstrates its dedication to protecting its borders and maintaining national security.
As Saudi Arabia continues to address the issue of illegal immigration, collaboration with other countries is essential in addressing the root causes of illegal migration and ensuring effective border control measures. By working together with diplomatic missions and other international partners, the Kingdom can enhance its efforts to combat illegal immigration and strengthen its immigration policies. The Ministry of Interior’s proactive approach to enforcing immigration laws underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding its borders and maintaining the rule of law.
In conclusion, the recent arrests of illegal residents in Saudi Arabia reflect the government’s commitment to combating illegal immigration and maintaining the integrity of its immigration policies. By cracking down on violators of immigration laws, the Ministry of Interior is sending a clear message that illegal immigration will not be tolerated, and those found in violation of the law will face severe penalties. Through continued enforcement efforts and collaboration with international partners, Saudi Arabia aims to enhance border control measures and protect its borders from illegal migration.
