Saudi authorities have arrested almost 22,000 people in a sweeping weeklong campaign against violators of residency, border, and labor laws across the Kingdom, the Ministry of Interior announced on Saturday.
The coordinated operation, carried out from August 7 to 13 by security forces and other government agencies, targeted illegal residents and those aiding them. Of the 21,997 arrested, 13,434 were found violating residency laws, 4,697 breached border security rules, and 3,866 broke labor regulations.
Authorities also detained 1,787 people attempting to enter Saudi Arabia unlawfully. Of these, 64 percent were Ethiopian nationals, 35 percent Yemeni, and the remainder from other countries. Another 27 individuals were caught trying to exit the Kingdom illegally.
The ministry reported that 18,149 violators have been referred to their embassies for travel documents, 2,973 are arranging travel bookings, and 12,861 have already been deported. Meanwhile, 25,439 expatriates remain under legal proceedings, including over 2,600 women.
Officials also confirmed the arrest of 18 people accused of transporting, sheltering, or employing illegal residents.
The Ministry of Interior issued a stern warning that anyone found facilitating illegal entry or providing assistance to violators faces up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SR1 million. Vehicles and properties used in such activities will also be seized.
