A recent joint field campaign in Saudi Arabia from June 27 to July 3, 2024, revealed a significant number of violators of residency, work, and border security regulations. A total of 16,565 violators were apprehended during this period, including 9,969 violators of the residency system, 4,676 violators of the border security system, and 1,920 violators of the labor system. Among those arrested, 1,244 individuals were caught trying to cross the border into Saudi Arabia, with the majority being Yemeni and Ethiopian nationals. Additionally, 63 individuals were arrested for attempting to cross the borders out of the Kingdom irregularly.
In addition to the individuals caught crossing borders illegally, three people involved in transporting, harboring, and employing violators of the regulations were also apprehended during the field campaigns. The total number of expatriates subjected to regulatory implementation procedures reached about 20,780, with the majority being men. A significant number of violators were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, complete travel reservations, or deported back to their home countries.
The Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia has issued a warning against anyone who facilitates the entry of border security violators into the Kingdom or provides any form of assistance to these individuals. Penalties for such crimes can include up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to one million riyals, and confiscation of transportation and housing used for accommodation. The Ministry emphasized the severity of these offenses and urged the public to report any violations to the designated hotlines in different regions of Saudi Arabia.
The joint field campaigns conducted in various regions of Saudi Arabia aimed to crack down on violators of residency, work, and border security regulations. The extensive efforts led to the apprehension of thousands of individuals who were attempting to enter or exit the Kingdom illegally. The campaigns also targeted individuals involved in transporting, harboring, and employing violators of the regulations, highlighting the importance of collaboration in maintaining security and order within the country.
The Ministry of Interior reiterated the seriousness of aiding individuals in violating border security regulations and emphasized the harsh penalties that can be imposed on those found guilty of such offenses. By encouraging the public to report any suspicious activities or individuals, the Ministry aims to prevent future violations and ensure the safety and security of the Kingdom. The joint field campaigns serve as a reminder of the government’s commitment to upholding the law and protecting the borders of Saudi Arabia.
Overall, the recent joint field campaigns in Saudi Arabia resulted in the arrest of thousands of individuals who were in violation of residency, work, and border security regulations. The collaboration between various law enforcement agencies helped to identify and apprehend individuals attempting to enter or exit the Kingdom illegally. By cracking down on violators and those who aid them, the government aims to maintain security and order within the country. The public is urged to report any violations to the designated hotlines to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents of Saudi Arabia.