In one week, Saudi authorities arrested 23,194 individuals for breaking residency, work, and border security rules. According to a report from the Saudi Press Agency, 13,083 people were arrested for violating residency laws. Additionally, 6,210 individuals were held for attempting illegal border crossings, while 3,901 were caught for labor-related offenses.
Among the arrests, 1,536 people were apprehended for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally. The majority of these individuals were from Ethiopia (57%) and Yemen (41%), with the rest being from other countries. In addition, 57 people were arrested for attempting to cross into neighboring countries, and 23 people were held for assisting with illegal entry or harboring violators.
The Ministry of Interior has warned that anyone caught helping illegal entrants could face up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), and the confiscation of vehicles and property.
Residents can report suspected violations to toll-free numbers: 911 in Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other parts of Saudi Arabia.
