Saudi Arabia Arrests Nearly 14,000 People in One Week, Deports More Than 10,000 Foreign Nationals

Saudi Arabia has arrested 13,889 people in a nationwide crackdown on violations of residency, labor, and border security laws, while 10,431 foreign nationals have been deported from the Kingdom. The enforcement operations were carried out from October 1 to 7 in coordination with relevant government agencies. According to figures released by the Saudi Ministry of Interior on Saturday, those arrested included 6,785 individuals for violating residency regulations, while 3,710 were detained on suspicion of violating border security laws. Another 3,394 people were arrested for labor law violations.

The Ministry of Interior said that law enforcement agencies also apprehended 1,382 people attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally. Of these, 66 per cent were Ethiopian nationals, 33 per cent were Yemeni nationals, and one per cent were citizens of other countries. In addition, 34 people were detained while attempting to leave Saudi Arabia illegally. Authorities reported that legal proceedings are ongoing against 33,113 foreign nationals for violating residency and immigration regulations. The group includes 30,438 men and 2,675 women. According to the ministry’s figures, 18,947 individuals were referred to diplomatic missions of their respective countries to obtain travel documents, while another 4,596 were sent to the relevant authorities to complete arrangements for their return home. Meanwhile, 21 people were arrested on suspicion of providing transportation, accommodation, employment, or other assistance to individuals residing illegally in the Kingdom.

Saudi authorities have warned that assisting people who enter the country illegally, transporting them from one location to another, providing them with shelter, or offering any other form of support constitutes a serious criminal offence. Those found involved in such activities may face imprisonment for up to 15 years and fines of up to 1 million Saudi riyals. Vehicles used to transport illegal residents and properties used to accommodate them may also be confiscated. The Ministry of Interior has urged citizens and residents to report violations of the law to the relevant authorities. Complaints can be submitted by calling the emergency hotline 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province.