RIYADH: Saudi Arabia deported 10,431 foreign residents and arrested 13,889 people during a week-long nationwide crackdown on violations of residency, labour and border security regulations, the Ministry of Interior said.
The inspections were conducted from October 1 to 7, according to the ministry.
Of those arrested, 6,785 were accused of violating residency regulations, 3,710 of breaching border security laws and 3,394 of violating labour laws.
Authorities also arrested 1,382 people for attempting to enter the Kingdom illegally and 34 others for attempting to leave the country unlawfully.
Among those detained while attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally, 66 per cent were Ethiopian nationals, 33 per cent were Yemeni nationals and the remaining one per cent belonged to other nationalities.
Legal Proceedings Against More Than 33,000 Residents
The ministry said legal procedures were under way against 33,113 foreign residents, including 30,438 men and 2,675 women.
A total of 18,947 individuals were referred to their respective diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, while another 4,596 were referred to complete arrangements for their departure.
Security authorities also arrested 21 people accused of providing transportation, accommodation or employment to individuals violating residency, labour or border security regulations.
Up to 15 Years in Prison for Assisting Illegal Entrants
The Ministry of Interior warned that helping people enter Saudi Arabia illegally, transporting undocumented entrants within the Kingdom or providing them with shelter could result in severe penalties.
Violators may face imprisonment for up to 15 years and fines of up to SR1 million. Vehicles used to transport offenders and properties used to accommodate them may also be confiscated.
Authorities urged citizens and residents to report suspected violations. The emergency number 911 is available for reporting such cases in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province.
