Saudi Arabia Arrests Thousands of Illegal Residents
The Saudi Ministry of Interior announced big news on Saturday. In just one week, security authorities arrested 21,647 illegal residents. These arrests happened during joint inspections from October 30 to November 5. The operations show how serious Saudi Arabia is about enforcing immigration laws.
Who Was Arrested
The arrested people broke different laws:
- 12,838 violated the Residency Law
- 4,564 violated the Border Security Law
- 4,245 violated the Labor Law
Some people tried to enter Kingdom illegally through the border. About 1,943 people were caught trying to cross in. Most of them were from Yemen (45%) and Ethiopia (54%). A smaller number were from other countries.
A total of 12,098 illegal residents were deported. Another 21,800 violators were sent to their embassies to get travel documents. About 6,012 violators were asked to complete their travel arrangements.
The authorities also arrested 26 people who helped illegal residents. These people gave them transportation, shelter, or jobs.
What Are the Penalties
If you help illegal residents enter the Kingdom or give them shelter, you face serious punishment. The penalty can be up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million. Your vehicle or house used to help them will be taken away by the government.
How to Report Violations
If you see anything illegal, you can report it. Call 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province. In other regions call 999 or 996.
The Ministry of Interior urges everyone to follow the law and report any violations they see.
