Security campaigns: Arrest of violators of residency and labor laws in Saudi Arabia
Saudi security forces continue their tireless efforts to enhance security and stability. Recent joint field campaigns have resulted in the apprehension of violators of residency, labor, and border security regulations across the Kingdom. These intensive campaigns are part of a series of decisive measures to ensure compliance with regulations and laws, and in just one week, they have led to the arrest of thousands of violators.
The Kingdom's comprehensive strategy in combating infiltration and irregular migration
Historically, Saudi Arabia has been a major destination for job seekers due to its strong economy and regional and international standing. With the increasing waves of irregular migration, the Kingdom has launched several strategic security initiatives, most notably the “A Nation Without Violators” campaign, which aims to regularize the status of expatriates and firmly enforce the law against violators. These ongoing campaigns reflect the state’s deep commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting the nation’s resources from the negative consequences of illegal presence, and eliminating the sources of commercial concealment that harm the national economy and create a fertile ground for violations.
Details and statistics: Results of joint field campaigns
Official reports on the results of the security campaigns revealed that a total of 14,487 violators were apprehended. These figures included 7,911 violators of residency regulations, 3,588 violators of border security regulations, and 2,988 violators of labor regulations.
Regarding infiltration attempts, 1,382 individuals were apprehended while attempting to cross the border into the Kingdom. Yemeni nationals constituted 38% of those apprehended, Ethiopians 61%, and other nationalities 1%. Additionally, 43 individuals were prevented from illegally crossing the border out of the Kingdom. Currently, 39,258 undocumented migrants are undergoing procedures for implementing regulations, including 35,460 men and 3,798 women. 12,554 undocumented individuals have been deported, and tens of thousands have been referred to diplomatic missions to complete their travel documents and arrangements.
The security and economic impact of operations to apprehend violators of residency and labor regulations
The enforcement of residency and labor laws against violators is of paramount importance, extending far beyond mere law enforcement to encompass profound security, economic, and social dimensions. Domestically, these efforts contribute to reducing crime rates, regulating the Saudi labor market, and protecting the economy from the practices of the informal economy. Regionally and internationally, tightening border control curbs the activities of human trafficking and smuggling networks, thereby enhancing regional stability and reinforcing the Kingdom's role as a strong and active partner in combating transnational organized crime.
Strict penalties for those who conceal and transport them
The campaigns targeted not only the violators themselves, but also those who facilitate their presence; 23 individuals involved in transporting, sheltering, and employing violators were apprehended. The Ministry of Interior reiterated its stern warnings that anyone who facilitates the entry of border security violators or provides them with shelter and assistance will face severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to 15 years, a fine of one million riyals, confiscation of vehicles and accommodations used, and public shaming of the convicted individual.
These acts are classified as major crimes warranting arrest and involving breaches of honor and integrity. Security authorities urge citizens and residents to report any violations via the designated numbers: (911) in Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and (999) and (996) in the rest of the Kingdom to ensure the safety and security of the community.
