Saudi Arabia Deports 10,431 Residents in Week-Long Crackdown
Saudi Arabia deported 10,431 residents and arrested 13,889 people during a week-long nationwide security sweep targeting residency, labour, and border security offences. Law enforcement agencies carried out joint inspection campaigns across the Kingdom between October 1 and 7, according to figures released by the Ministry of Interior.
The arrests comprised 6,785 individuals accused of violating residency regulations, 3,710 suspected of breaching border security laws, and 3,394 detained over labour law violations. Security forces also apprehended 1,382 people attempting to cross into the Kingdom illegally. Among those detained at the borders, 66 per cent were Ethiopian nationals, 33 per cent were Yemenis, and one per cent belonged to other nationalities, while another 34 people were caught attempting to leave the country illegally.
A total of 33,113 expatriates are currently undergoing legal procedures to enforce immigration rules, including 30,438 men and 2,675 women. Out of these violators, 18,947 were referred to their respective diplomatic missions to secure travel documents, and 4,596 were directed to complete travel arrangements ahead of their scheduled departure.
Authorities also detained 21 individuals accused of providing transport, accommodation, or employment to regulatory violators. The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone who facilitates illegal entry, transports undocumented individuals, or offers shelter faces severe legal repercussions. Punishments include imprisonment of up to 15 years, fines reaching SR1 million, and the confiscation of vehicles and properties used to assist the offenders. Residents can report suspected violations through the emergency number 911 in Mecca, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province.
