Saudi authorities have arrested 12,192 individuals in a single week for violating residency, work, and border security regulations, according to a report by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) on Saturday.
Breakdown of Arrests
The arrests included 6,606 people for residency law violations, 3,510 for illegal border crossing attempts, and 2,076 for labor-related issues. Among those attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally, 67 percent were Ethiopian, 32 percent Yemeni, and 1 percent were of other nationalities.
Attempted Exits and Harboring
A further 50 people were caught attempting to cross into neighboring countries, while 22 were detained for involvement in transporting and harboring violators. The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone facilitating illegal entry, including providing transportation or shelter, could face up to 15 years in prison, fines up to SR1 million ($267,000), and confiscation of vehicles and property.
Suspected violations can be reported via toll-free numbers: 911 in Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.
