Significant Crackdown on Immigration and Border Violations Across Saudi Arabia
Between May 29 and June 4, 2025, comprehensive field operations aimed at monitoring and apprehending individuals violating residence, labor, and border security regulations were executed nationwide in Saudi Arabia. These extensive campaigns culminated in the seizure of a staggering 11,657 violators of various laws.
Overview of Violations
The combined efforts of security authorities resulted in a detailed breakdown of the apprehended individuals:
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Types of Violations: Among the total violators, 6,981 individuals breached residence laws, while 3,190 were found guilty of infringing border security regulations, and 1,486 violated labor laws.
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Border Crossing Attempts: During these operations, 1,324 individuals were captured while attempting to illegally cross into Saudi Arabia. A significant portion of these individuals, approximately 33%, were of Yemeni descent, while the majority, at about 65%, were Ethiopian. The remaining 2% comprised individuals of other nationalities. Additionally, authorities apprehended 76 individuals trying to exit the country unlawfully.
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Exploitation and Aiding Violations: The operations also led to the arrest of 10 individuals involved in facilitating, housing, or employing violators of residence and labor regulations, as well as those who sought to conceal these activities.
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Current Status of Violators: Currently, 17,018 violators are undergoing legal procedures. This group consists of 15,991 men and 1,027 women.
- Legal Actions and Deportations: Among the actions taken, 12,122 violators have been referred to their respective diplomatic missions for the necessary travel documents. Moreover, 1,435 individuals were directed to complete their travel arrangements, while 9,215 violators were deported.
Government Stance and Warnings
The Ministry of Interior has reiterated its stringent stance against anyone facilitating the entry of individuals who violate border security laws into the kingdom. Such facilitators face severe penalties, which may include imprisonment for up to 15 years, hefty fines reaching one million riyals, and the confiscation of vehicles or accommodations used in these illicit activities. Furthermore, individuals found guilty may also suffer public disgrace due to mandatory exposure.
The ministry emphasized that these crimes are categorized as serious offenses that warrant detention, severely undermining public trust and security. Citizens and residents are actively encouraged to report any suspicious activities or violations by contacting local authorities through designated numbers. For regions specifically including Makkah, Medina, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, the hotline number is 911, while 999 and 996 are available for other areas throughout the kingdom.
Conclusion
The recent initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to maintaining stringent immigration and labor policies, ensuring the security and integrity of its borders, and highlighting an aggressive crackdown on illegal activities. By addressing these violations head-on, the government aims to create a safer environment for its citizens and uphold the rule of law across all regions. The enforcement actions not only represent a proactive approach to national security but also serve as a deterrent against future violations, signaling to all inhabitants the importance of compliance with legal frameworks concerning residency and labor regulations.
