Saudi Arabia Intensifies Immigration Enforcement with 19,328 Arrests

Saudi authorities reported 19,328 arrests during a weeklong nationwide operation targeting immigration violations, Arab News reported citing the Saudi Press Agency release.

The crackdown netted 11,245 residency law violators, 4,297 illegal border crossers, and 3,786 labor regulation offenders. Among those attempting unlawful entry, Ethiopians comprised 54% of the 1,360 apprehended, with Yemenis accounting for 44%. Authorities also intercepted 79 individuals attempting illegal exits and detained 22 suspected smugglers or harborers of undocumented migrants.

The Ministry of Interior emphasized severe consequences for facilitation of illegal immigration, including 15-year maximum prison terms, SR1 million ([$260,000]) fines, and asset forfeiture. Officials urged citizens to report violations through regional hotlines: 911 in Riyadh and Makkah, or 999/996 elsewhere in the Kingdom.

These figures underscore Saudi Arabia’s rigorous border control measures amid persistent regional migration pressures, particularly along its southern frontiers.