Saudi Arabia arrests over 20,000 people as part of nationwide measures against residency and border violations

Among those detained were 13,248 for violations of residence law, 4,688 for violations of border security and 2,782 for violations of labor law.

Among those arrested were 744 people who were caught attempting to cross the border illegally. Of these, 37 percent were Yemeni nationals, 62 percent were Ethiopians and one percent were from various other countries.

In addition, 69 people were arrested for attempting to leave the country illegally.

During the raid, 16 people were also arrested on suspicion of transporting, harboring or employing people without legal residency status.

Legal proceedings are currently underway against 14,634 foreigners – 13,532 men and 1,102 women.

As part of the enforcement actions, 5,361 violators were ordered to obtain travel documents from their diplomatic missions, 1,982 were ordered to complete their travel reservations and 12,410 were deported.

The ministry warns against supporting illegal activities. Such actions could result in prison sentences of up to 15 years and fines of up to 1 million SR. In addition, vehicles and property used in these activities could be confiscated.