Riyadh: As the Hajj season begins, Saudi Arabia has launched an intensified crackdown on labor and residency violations. The Ministry of Interior reported that 15,928 individuals were arrested between May 1 and May 7 across the country in a coordinated campaign.
Among those detained, 10,179 were found to be in violation of residency laws, 3,912 violated border security rules, and 1,837 breached labor regulations. The campaign also uncovered 1,248 individuals attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally—63 percent of them Ethiopian nationals, 35 percent Yemenis, and 2 percent from other countries.
Authorities also apprehended 45 people trying to exit the Kingdom without proper documentation, and 26 individuals for aiding violators by offering shelter, transport, or jobs.
Currently, 25,689 individuals—23,946 men and 1,743 women—are undergoing legal procedures related to their cases. The Ministry of Interior warned that aiding illegal residents or workers is a serious crime, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, fines of up to 1 million Saudi riyals, and confiscation of the vehicles used.
The crackdown reflects the Kingdom’s firm stance on maintaining legal order, particularly during the Hajj season.
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