Riyadh, October 12, 2024 – The Ministry of Interior has conducted a series of extensive inspection campaigns across Saudi Arabia from October 3 to October 9, 2024, aimed at ensuring strict adherence to the Kingdom’s residency, labor, and border security laws. These efforts resulted in the identification of thousands of violations, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order within its borders.
The inspection campaigns led to a total of 22,993 recorded violations. Of these, 14,269 were related to residency laws, 5,230 to border security violations, and 3,494 to breaches of labor laws. These figures reflect the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in enforcing compliance across various sectors.
Among the key findings was the apprehension of 1,378 individuals attempting to cross the border into Saudi Arabia illegally. A breakdown of the nationalities showed that 41% of these individuals were Yemenis, 58% were Ethiopians, and the remaining 1% were of other nationalities. Additionally, 80 people were arrested for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally.
In connection with these violations, 19 individuals were arrested for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Such offenses are taken seriously by the authorities, as they undermine the country’s security and legal framework.
As part of the ongoing legal processes, a total of 15,136 expatriates (13,520 men and 1,616 women) are currently undergoing procedures to ensure that appropriate actions are taken in line with Saudi regulations. Of these, 7,211 individuals have been detained and instructed to liaise with their respective embassies or consulates to obtain the necessary travel documentation. Meanwhile, 2,381 individuals have been directed to make arrangements for their departure, and 11,907 have already been repatriated.
The Ministry of Interior issued a stern warning to those who facilitate illegal activities, including the entry, transportation, or sheltering of individuals who violate residency or border laws. The ministry stressed that those found guilty of such acts face severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison, fines of up to SAR 1 million, and the potential confiscation of any vehicles or property used in the commission of these crimes. The ministry also emphasized that these offenses are classified as major crimes that warrant immediate arrest.
In an effort to further strengthen its enforcement measures, the ministry urged the public to report any violations of residency, labor, or border security laws. Citizens and residents are encouraged to call 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and 999 or 996 in other parts of the Kingdom, to report illegal activities.