RIYADH : Saudi authorities have arrested 20,749 individuals for residency, labour, and border security violations in a week-long nationwide inspection campaign, the Ministry of Interior announced. The crackdown, conducted between February 27 and March 5, underscores the Kingdom’s efforts to enforce regulatory compliance and border security.

According to ministry figures:

13,871 violations were linked to residency laws

3,517 cases involved border security breaches

3,361 offenses were tied to labour regulations

Among those detained, 1,051 individuals were caught attempting to illegally enter Saudi Arabia, with 54% identified as Ethiopians, 43% as Yemenis, and the remainder from other nationalities. Additionally, 90 people were intercepted while trying to exit the country unlawfully.

Authorities have so far deported 10,024 violators, while 40,173 expats—including 35,862 men and 4,311 women—are currently undergoing legal procedures. Of those detained:

32,375 have been instructed to obtain travel documents from their embassies

2,576 have been asked to arrange departure bookings

Security forces also arrested 12 individuals for facilitating illegal entry, transport, or employment of violators.

The Ministry of Interior issued a strong warning that anyone aiding illegal entry, transport, or sheltering violators could face:

Up to 15 years in prison

Fines of up to SR1 million

Confiscation of vehicles and properties used in the crime

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