During a recent series of coordinated field operations aimed at monitoring and addressing violations of residence, labor, and border security regulations, significant numbers of offenders were apprehended across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The operations, which spanned from April 24 to April 30, 2025, resulted in the detention of a total of 17,153 individuals violating these laws.
Specifically, the findings from these extensive security campaigns revealed the following details:
Firstly, the overall count of individuals apprehended for various violations reached 17,153. This figure included 10,305 individuals who breached residency laws, 3,644 who violated border security regulations, and 3,204 who were found in contravention of labor laws.
Secondly, there were 1,109 individuals caught attempting to cross the border into Saudi Arabia illegally. Among them, 35% were of Yemeni nationality, 62% Ethiopian, and the remaining 3% from various other nationalities. Additionally, 76 individuals were apprehended while trying to exit the Kingdom through unauthorized means.
Thirdly, authorities arrested 13 individuals involved in facilitating, harboring, or employing those violating residence and labor laws, as well as border security protocols. These actions indicate a concerted effort to not only detain individuals violating laws but also to target those who enable such violations.
Fourthly, the current total of expatriate violators undergoing enforcement procedures has reached 28,706 individuals. This number comprises 27,022 males and 1,684 females, indicating a pronounced gender disparity among those apprehended.
Fifthly, legal proceedings are in motion against 20,537 violators in cooperation with their respective diplomatic missions to facilitate the issuance of travel documents. Furthermore, 2,484 individuals were directed to finalize their travel arrangements, while 15,402 offenders faced deportation.
The Ministry of Interior underscored the seriousness of these violations, stating that anyone who facilitates the entry of border security violators into Saudi Arabia, transports them within the Kingdom, provides lodging, or offers assistance in any form could face severe consequences. Penalties for such actions can include imprisonment for up to 15 years, monetary fines reaching as high as one million riyals, and the confiscation of means of transportation and accommodation used in the offenses. Moreover, individuals involved in these crimes may also face public disgrace.
The Ministry highlighted that such offenses are categorized as serious crimes warranting immediate detention, undermining trust and security in the society. Citizens and residents are urged to report any instances of violation by contacting the assigned emergency numbers: “911” for the areas of Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, while “999” and “996” are designated for other regions across the Kingdom.
These operations reflect a robust commitment by Saudi authorities to enforce regulations surrounding residency, labor, and border integrity. The measures taken are part of a larger strategy to enhance national security and ensure compliance with legal frameworks. By actively pursuing violators and their accomplices, the Ministry aims to deter future violations and promote a more secure environment for all residents of the Kingdom.
In conclusion, the recent crackdown on illegal activities surrounding residency and border security issues demonstrates the concerted efforts of Saudi authorities to uphold the law and maintain societal integrity. Continued vigilance and community cooperation are essential in combating these significant challenges, ensuring that the Kingdom remains safe and law-abiding.
