Riyadh, May 5 (V7N) - In one of the most extensive immigration enforcement drives in recent months, Saudi Arabia has detained over 17,000 foreign nationals in a single week for violations of residency, labor, and border security laws. The operation, which took place between February 20 and 26, was revealed in an official statement by the Saudi Ministry of Interior on Sunday.

The Kingdom’s latest crackdown is part of its ongoing campaign to regulate its labor market, safeguard national security, and deter illegal immigration. The arrests come amid rising regional security concerns and increased scrutiny of undocumented labor practices.

The Numbers Behind the Sweep

A total of 17,389 individuals were arrested across the Kingdom, categorized as follows:

  • Residency law violators: 10,397

  • Border security violators: 4,128

  • Labor law violators: 2,864

In addition, 1,483 individuals were apprehended while attempting to cross into Saudi Arabia illegally. Among them:

  • 56% were Ethiopian nationals

  • 41% were Yemenis

  • 3% hailed from other countries

These figures point to continuing migration pressure at Saudi Arabia’s southern border, particularly with Yemen, where conflict and economic hardship continue to drive outward migration.

Legal Processing and Deportations

Authorities have moved swiftly in processing those arrested:

  • 31,463 violators have been referred to diplomatic missions for travel documentation

  • 3,709 are in the process of arranging travel

  • 10,363 individuals have already been deported

The Interior Ministry confirmed that legal procedures are being strictly followed, including deportation and penalties based on the severity of each case.

Zero Tolerance for Facilitators

In addition to the migrants themselves, Saudi officials arrested 15 individuals accused of harboring, transporting, or employing illegal residents. Authorities reiterated that anyone facilitating such violations could face:

  • Up to 15 years in prison
  • Fines of up to 1 million Saudi Riyals
  • Seizure of vehicles and property used in the act

Public Vigilance Encouraged

The Ministry of Interior is urging citizens and residents to report violators through national hotlines:

  • 911 – for Makkah, Riyadh & Eastern Province
  • 999 or 996 – for other regions

This public collaboration is viewed as critical in the success of ongoing enforcement campaigns.

Broader Implications

Saudi Arabia’s crackdown is reflective of a regional trend where Gulf states are tightening immigration controls amid efforts to reform labor markets and improve national security. While the enforcement actions may raise humanitarian concerns in some circles, Saudi officials maintain that the operations are necessary to maintain legal order and workforce stability.

As deportations continue and enforcement intensifies, the Kingdom’s message remains clear: compliance with residency and labor laws is non-negotiable.

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