Riyadh: In a concentrated effort to enforce residency, labor, and border security laws, the Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia has reported a total of 15,458 violations during inspection campaigns conducted between April 2 and April 8. These violations include 8,440 related to residency, 4,054 associated with border security, and 2,964 concerning labor laws.

According to Saudi Press Agency, border authorities apprehended 1,600 individuals attempting to cross into the Kingdom illegally. Among these, 39% were Yemenis, 60% Ethiopians, and 1% from other nationalities. Additionally, 47 individuals were arrested for attempting to exit the Kingdom illegally. Authorities also detained 30 people for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, and employing violators.

The report further states that 40,184 expatriates, consisting of 35,861 men and 4,323 women, are currently undergoing procedures to enforce regulations. Of these, 22,942 individuals have been detained for violating regulations and directed to contact their respective embassies or consulates to secure appropriate travel documents. Furthermore, 11,221 were advised to arrange travel, and 7,392 have been repatriated.

The Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning regarding the facilitation of illegal entry into the Kingdom. Individuals found guilty of aiding such activities, including transportation, sheltering, or providing assistance, may face severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SAR1 million. Properties and vehicles used in such activities risk confiscation.

The ministry reiterated that these violations are considered major crimes warranting arrest and urged the public to report any infractions by contacting designated numbers: 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.