Saudi authorities arrested 10,725 illegal residents during nationwide inspection campaigns carried out between June 4 and June 10, according to the Ministry of Interior.
Joint Operations Across the Kingdom
The arrests were made during joint operations conducted by security forces in coordination with relevant government agencies across the Kingdom. Among those detained were 5,899 violators of residency regulations, 3,084 individuals accused of breaching border security laws, and 1,742 people found violating labor regulations.
Deportations and Referrals
The ministry said 7,989 illegal residents were deported during the reporting period. Another 14,268 violators were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, while 1,240 were referred to complete travel arrangements before departure.
Attempts to Enter or Leave Illegally
Authorities also arrested 1,418 people attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. According to the ministry, 43 percent of those detained were Yemeni nationals, 55 percent were Ethiopian nationals, and the remaining two percent belonged to other nationalities. A further 34 individuals were arrested while attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally.
Enforcement and Penalties
The ministry said 18 people were detained for allegedly transporting, sheltering, or employing violators of residency, labor, and border regulations. Currently, 22,026 expatriates are undergoing legal procedures linked to enforcement measures, including 20,459 men and 1,567 women.
The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone found facilitating the illegal entry of individuals into Saudi Arabia, transporting them, providing accommodation, or offering assistance could face up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to SR1 million. Vehicles and properties used in such violations may also be confiscated.
Public Reporting
The ministry urged members of the public to report violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.
