RIYADH, Sep 8: Saudi Arabia’s nationwide security campaigns have resulted in the arrest of approximately 20,000 individuals for violating residency, labor, and border security regulations within just one week.

According to official figures, the joint operations apprehended:

In addition, security forces detained 1,244 individuals attempting to illegally cross into the Kingdom. Of these, 33% were Yemeni nationals, 66% Ethiopian nationals, and 1% from other nationalities.

Authorities also arrested 21 individuals for attempting to leave the Kingdom unlawfully, and 20 others were accused of transporting, sheltering, or employing violators, as well as covering up their activities.

The Ministry of Interior reiterated that anyone who facilitates the entry, transport, or shelter of border security violators will face severe penalties. These include up to 15 years in prison, fines of up to 1 million riyals, confiscation of vehicles and property used in the crime, and public naming and shaming.

The ministry stressed that such offenses are classified as major crimes involving dishonor and breach of trust. Citizens and residents are urged to report violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 and 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.