Saudi security forces arrest nearly 22,000 for breaching border, residency, labour laws

RIYADH: The Saudi security forces have recently apprehended nearly 22,000 illegal immigrants for breaching laws related to border security, residency and labour, as per the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The SPA on Saturday said the Ministry of Interior carried out inspection drives across the country from October 10 to 16 to ensure compliance with the said laws.

A total of 21,971 people, including 13,186, have been so far for breaching the laws of residency, 5,427 for violating border security laws and 3,358 others for non-compliance with the labour laws.

According to an official report, 1,421 individuals were found attempting to illegally cross the border into the KSA. It said 34% of them were Yemenis, 64% Ethiopians and 2% of other nationalities. Whereas, 53 people were arrested for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally.

Furthermore, the ministry officials arrested 18 people involved in transporting, sheltering and employing violators.

The SPA said 8,370 people detained for violating laws were instructed to contact their countries' embassies or consulates to obtain proper travel documentation. While, 2,054 of them were told to make booking arrangements for their departure, and 12,355 were repatriated.

Total 15,775 immigrants (13,885 men and 1,890 women) "are currently undergoing procedures for enforcing regulations”, the news agency said.

The Saudi interior minister has warned that any person who facilitates the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom, transports them on its territory, provides them with shelter or any other assistance or service may be penalised with up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SAR1 million, and that the vehicles used for transport or houses used for shelter may be confiscated.

The ministry stressed that such acts are major crimes that warrant arrest. It also urges people to report any violations by calling 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh, and eastern regions, and 999 and 996 in the rest of the Kingdom.