The Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia has reported the arrest of 23,865 individuals who violated residency, labor, and border security regulations through joint field campaigns conducted across the Kingdom.
Mass Arrests of Violators Across Saudi Arabia
The Ministry of Interior provided a detailed breakdown of the arrests made between March 6 and March 12, 2025, in all regions of Saudi Arabia:
- Total Arrests: Authorities detained 23,865 violators, including:
- 16,644 violators of residency laws
- 3,896 violators of border security laws
- 3,325 violators of labor laws
Illegal Border Crossings Thwarted
Security forces intercepted 1,432 individuals attempting to cross the border into Saudi Arabia. Among them:
- 29% were Yemeni nationals
- 67% were Ethiopian nationals
- 4% were from other nationalities
Additionally, 97 individuals were arrested while attempting to exit the Kingdom illegally.
Crackdown on Those Assisting Violators
Authorities also took action against individuals involved in facilitating illegal residency, labor, and border security violations:
- 13 individuals were arrested for aiding violators by transporting, employing, or sheltering them.
- A total of 39,976 expatriates (including 36,307 men and 3,669 women) are currently facing legal action.
Deportation and Legal Proceedings
The Ministry of Interior detailed the ongoing legal procedures against violators:
- 2,311 violators have been referred for travel reservation finalization.
- 10,331 violators have been deported.
- 32,825 violators are awaiting travel documents from their respective diplomatic missions.
Strict Penalties for Harboring Violators
The Ministry of Interior warned that those who assist illegal residents and violators will face severe consequences, including:
- Up to 15 years in prison
- A fine of up to SAR 1 million
- Confiscation of vehicles and properties used for sheltering violators
- Public shaming
- This offense is classified as a major crime requiring arrest, as it violates public trust and national security.
Reporting Violations
The Ministry encourages the public to report violations through the following emergency numbers:
- 911 – Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern Province
- 999 & 996 – Other regions of Saudi Arabia
