Saudi Arabia arrests over 14,000 illegal residents in a week

Dubai: Saudi security authorities arrested 14,487 illegal residents during a week-long nationwide crackdown, the Ministry of Interior has said.

The arrests were carried out during joint inspection campaigns conducted by security forces in coordination with relevant government agencies between April 9 and April 15.

Those detained included 7,911 violators of residency regulations, 3,588 of border security rules and 2,988 of labour laws. Authorities said 21,127 violators were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, while 11,240 were processed to complete travel arrangements. A further 12,554 were deported.

Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here.

The ministry added that 1,382 individuals were arrested while attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally, including 38 per cent Yemeni nationals, 61 per cent Ethiopian nationals and one per cent of other nationalities. Another 43 people were detained while attempting to leave the country unlawfully.

Authorities also arrested 23 people accused of transporting, sheltering or employing violators. A total of 39,258 expatriates, including 35,460 men and 3,798 women, are currently undergoing legal procedures.

The ministry warned that facilitating illegal entry, transport or shelter could result in penalties of up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to SR1 million, along with the confiscation of vehicles and properties used.

It urged the public to report violations by calling 911 in Mecca, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, and 999 or 996 in other regions.