Saudi authorities have arrested 10,725 individuals in a single week for breaching residency, work, and border security regulations, according to a report by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Breakdown of Arrests
A total of 5,899 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 3,084 were held for attempting illegal border crossings, and 1,742 were detained for labor-related issues.
Nationalities of Illegal Border Crossers
Among the 1,418 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 55 percent were Ethiopian, 43 percent were Yemeni, and 2 percent were of other nationalities.
Additionally, 34 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 18 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.
Penalties for Facilitators
The Ministry of Interior stated that anyone found facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for up to 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($267,000), and confiscation of vehicles and property.
Reporting Violations
Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.
