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In a remarkable show of force, Saudi Arabia’s authorities have arrested a staggering 13,440 individuals in a single week for violating residency, labour, and security regulations. This massive crackdown underscores the country’s commitment to upholding the law and maintaining national security.

The inspection campaigns, which took place from June 14 to June 20, 2024, uncovered a total of 13,445 violations, including:

• 8,763 residency violations
• 3,230 border security violations
• 1,452 labour law violations

An astonishing 1,063 individuals attempted to cross the border into the Kingdom illegally, with the majority being Yemenis (36%) and Ethiopians (62%). Furthermore, 66 people were arrested for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally.

One individual was apprehended for facilitating the illegal entry, transportation, and employment of violators. This highlights the country’s determination to hold accountable those who engage in such activities.

Currently, 22,580 expatriates are undergoing procedures to enforce regulations, with 15,458 individuals detained for violating laws. These individuals have been instructed to contact their countries’ embassies or consulates to obtain proper travel documentation. A total of 1,990 individuals were told to complete booking arrangements for their departure, while 8,099 were repatriated.

The Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning, stating that anyone who facilitates the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom, transports them on its territory, provides them shelter or any other assistance or service may be penalized with up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1m ($267,000). Additionally, the vehicles used for transport or houses used for shelter may be impounded.

The Saudi authorities are urging citizens to report any violations by calling 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions and 999 and 996 in the rest of Saudi Arabia.

This significant crackdown sends a clear message that Saudi Arabia will not tolerate illegal activities, and those who violate the country’s laws will face the full force of the law.