Saudi Arrests Over Fourteen Thousand For Residency Law Violations

[Awwal]

Saudi authorities arrested 14,242 people within one week for breaking residency, work, and border security regulations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The arrests were part of ongoing efforts by the government to enforce immigration laws and maintain national security across different regions.

According to official reports, 7,884 people were arrested for violating residency laws. These include individuals who stayed in the country without valid permits or failed to renew their legal residency documents on time, which is considered a serious offense under Saudi law.

In addition, 3,948 people were detained for attempting to cross the border illegally. Authorities explained that illegal border crossing threatens national security and violates immigration rules, so strict actions are taken against those involved in such activities.

Another 2,410 individuals were arrested for labor-related violations. These cases mostly involve people working without proper work permits or employers hiring workers without following government regulations, which is also punishable under Saudi labor laws.

The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone helping illegal migrants enter the Kingdom or providing transportation and shelter could face severe punishment. Offenders may receive up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to SR1 million (about $267,000), and their vehicles or property may be confiscated.

Authorities encouraged residents to report any suspected violations through toll-free emergency numbers. People in Makkah and Riyadh regions can call 911, while those in other regions can report through 999 or 996 to help maintain security and law enforcement in the Kingdom.

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