17,389 Illegal Residents Arrested in Saudi Arabia During Weeklong Crackdown

Saudi Arabia has arrested 17,389 people who were living in the country without proper permission. The arrests took place in different areas of the Kingdom as part of a one-week campaign against violations of residency, labor, and border rules. The Ministry of Interior announced this on Saturday.

When Did the Arrests Happen?

The arrests were made between February 20 and February 26 during joint security operations. The Saudi security forces worked together with other government agencies to carry out this operation.

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Who Were the People Arrested?

Among the arrested individuals:

• 10,397 people were caught for breaking residency rules (living in the country without legal documents).

• 4,128 people were found guilty of violating border security laws (crossing borders illegally).

• 2,864 people were arrested for breaking labor laws (working without permission or proper documents).

Illegal Entry and Exit Cases

Authorities also arrested 1,483 people who were trying to enter Saudi Arabia illegally.

• 41% of them were from Yemen

• 56% were from Ethiopia

• 3% were from other countries

Additionally, 104 people were arrested while trying to leave the country illegally.

Deportation Process

Saudi Arabia has started the process of sending these illegal residents back to their home countries.

• 31,463 people have been sent to their country’s embassy to get the necessary travel documents.

• 3,709 people are in the process of booking travel tickets.

• 10,363 people have already been deported.

People Helping Illegal Residents Also Arrested

Authorities also arrested 15 people who helped illegal residents by giving them transportation, jobs, or shelter.

Strict Punishments for Those Helping Illegal Residents

The Ministry of Interior has warned that anyone caught helping illegal residents could face serious punishment:

• Up to 15 years in prison

• A fine of up to SR1 million (Saudi Riyals)

• Confiscation of vehicles and properties used in illegal activities

The government has reminded everyone that following residency, labor, and border laws is very important. They have urged people to report any illegal activities to the authorities.