Saudi Arabia’s security forces have detained thousands of illegal residents in a nationwide crackdown, with authorities stepping up enforcement of residence, labor and border laws while warning that anyone providing aid to violators will be severely punished. The interior ministry said a total of 14,242 people were arrested during joint inspection operations coordinated with multiple government agencies between March 26 and April 1. The arrests related to a range of offences, with 7,884 related to breaches of the Residence Act, 3,948 to breaches of the Border Security Act and 2,410 to breaches of the Labor Code. Authorities also outlined the follow-up actions taken after the arrest. A total of 23,815 violators were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents and 6,808 violators were directed to complete travel bookings. In addition, 6,285 people have been deported. Border enforcement remains a key focus during this period. Officials reported that 1,449 people were detained while trying to enter the kingdom illegally. Of these, 27% are Yemeni nationals, 71% are Ethiopian nationals, and the remaining 2% are from other nationalities. Another 29 people were arrested while trying to leave the country illegally. The crackdown also targets those who support illegal residence. Security forces arrested 25 people accused of providing transportation, housing or employment to offenders. Meanwhile, a total of 36,365 foreign nationals, including 32,309 men and 4,056 women, are undergoing legal proceedings as authorities move to enforce regulations. The Home Office reiterated that severe penalties will be imposed on anyone who facilitates illegal entry or provides assistance to undocumented individuals. These include prison sentences of up to 15 years and fines of up to 1 million rials. Vehicles used for transportation and property used for shelter may also be confiscated, authorities added. The public has been urged to report breaches through designated emergency telephone numbers. The ministry advised residents to call 911 in Mecca, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, while 999 and 996 can be dialed in other parts of the kingdom.
