Riyadh: In a recent series of inspection campaigns conducted across Saudi Arabia from July 30 to August 5, the Ministry of Interior recorded a total of 14,440 violations related to residency, labor, and border security laws. These violations included 7,090 related to residency, 3,932 to border security, and 3,418 to labor regulations.

According to Saudi Press Agency, border authorities apprehended 1,593 individuals attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally. Among these, 40% were Yemenis, 59% Ethiopians, and 1% from other nationalities. Additionally, 32 individuals were arrested for attempting to exit the Kingdom illegally. The authorities also detained 25 individuals for their involvement in transporting, sheltering, and employing violators.

Currently, 32,012 expatriates, comprising 29,995 men and 2,017 women, are undergoing procedures to enforce regulations. Meanwhile, 18,131 individuals have been detained for violating the regulations and have been instructed to contact their respective embassies or consulates to acquire proper travel documents. Furthermore, 6,357 were advised to make travel arrangements, while 10,827 were repatriated.

The Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning that anyone who facilitates the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom, transports them within its territory, or provides them with shelter, assistance, or any other service may face severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SAR1 million. Additionally, vehicles used for transport and properties used for shelter may be subject to confiscation.

The ministry reiterated that such acts are considered major crimes that warrant arrest and urged the public to report any violations. Citizens and residents can report by calling 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.