Saudi authorities have arrested 15,288 people for violations of residency, labour, and border security laws during a week-long nationwide enforcement campaign, the Ministry of Interior said.
The operations, carried out between June 11 and June 17 in Saudi Arabia, were conducted in coordination with relevant government agencies as part of ongoing efforts to enforce immigration and labour regulations.
According to the ministry, those arrested included individuals found to be in breach of residency rules, labour regulations, and border security laws. The campaign also targeted attempts to enter or leave the country illegally.
Officials said 1,668 people were intercepted while attempting to cross borders unlawfully, with nationalities including Yemeni, Ethiopian and others. A small number were also detained while trying to exit the country illegally.
During the same period, 10,458 individuals were deported, while more than 15,000 were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents. Nearly 2,000 others were directed to complete travel arrangements.
Authorities also confirmed the arrest of individuals accused of facilitating illegal entry, transport, and shelter for violators.
The Ministry of Interior warned that those who assist illegal entry or provide logistical support to violators face penalties of up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching SR1 million, alongside possible confiscation of vehicles and properties used in such activities.
The ministry said the campaign forms part of wider efforts to strengthen compliance with residency and labour laws and maintain border security across the Kingdom.
