Saudi Arabia arrested 14,487 illegal residents during a week-long nationwide crackdown, the interior ministry said.The arrests were carried out between April 9 and 15 as part of a joint inspection operation carried out by security forces in coordination with other government agencies.Of the detainees, 7,911 were found to have violated residency laws, 3,588 to have violated border security regulations and 2,988 to have violated labor laws.The authority said 21,127 people had been referred to its diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, while travel arrangements were being finalized for a further 11,240 people. So far, 12,554 people have been deported.Security forces also intercepted 1,382 people trying to enter the Kingdom illegally. Officials said 38% were Yemeni nationals, 61% were Ethiopians and the remaining 1% were of other nationalities. In addition, 43 people were arrested while trying to leave the country illegally.The ministry said 23 people were arrested for providing transport, accommodation or employment opportunities to offenders.A total of 39,258 foreigners (35,460 men and 3,798 women) are currently undergoing legal proceedings.The interior ministry warned that anyone found helping to illegally enter, transport or harbor criminals could face up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to 1 million rials. Vehicles and property used in such activities may also be confiscated.Authorities urge the public to report violations by dialing 911 in Mecca, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, and 999 or 996 in other areas.
