Saudi Arabia has deported 10,431 residents and arrested nearly 14,000 people during a week-long nationwide crackdown on residency, labour and border security violations.
The Ministry of Interior said the arrests were made during joint inspection campaigns carried out from October 1 to 7 with several government agencies. A total of 13,889 people were detained during the operation. Of these, 6,785 were accused of violating residency laws, 3,710 of breaching border security regulations and 3,394 of violating labour rules.
Authorities also arrested 1,382 people who were allegedly attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. According to official figures, 66 percent were Ethiopian nationals, 33 percent were Yemenis and the remaining one percent belonged to other nationalities. Another 34 people were caught while allegedly trying to leave the country illegally.
The ministry said 33,113 expatriates were undergoing procedures related to immigration and residency enforcement. This included 30,438 men and 2,675 women. Officials also referred 18,947 individuals to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, while 4,596 others were sent to complete departure arrangements.
Saudi authorities also detained 21 people accused of providing transport, shelter or employment to individuals violating immigration and border laws.
The Interior Ministry issued a strict warning against assisting undocumented entrants. Those found facilitating illegal entry, transport or accommodation could face prison terms of up to 15 years and fines reaching one million Saudi riyals. Vehicles and properties used in such offences may also be confiscated.
Authorities urged residents to report suspected violations through emergency channels as enforcement operations continue across the Kingdom.
