Saudi Authorities Arrest 19,710 Illegals in One Week
Saudi authorities arrested 19,710 people in one week for breaching residency, work, and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
According to an official report, a total of 12,961 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,177 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 2,572 for labour-related issues.
The report showed that among the 979 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 54 percent were Ethiopian, 43 percent were Yemeni, and 3 percent were of other nationalities.
A further 46 people were caught trying to cross into neighbouring countries, and 12 were held for involvement in transporting and harbouring violators.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.
Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.
