In a joint field campaign by various units of the security forces, a total of 16,649 violators of residency, labor laws, and border security regulations were arrested across different regions of Saudi Arabia within a week from March 16 to 22, according to the Ministry of Interior.

The arrests included 9,259 violators of the residency system, 4,899 violators of border security rules, and 2,491 violators of labor laws. Among the arrested individuals were 1,132 people who were caught trying to cross the border into Saudi Arabia, with 68 violators attempting to exit the country.

The majority of individuals caught trying to cross the border were Yemenis (45%) and Ethiopians (52%), while 3% were of other nationalities. Additionally, 18 persons who were involved in transporting and harboring violators of residency and work regulations and practicing cover-up activities were also arrested.

As of now, 15,782 violators are currently undergoing procedures for violating regulations, of which 13,415 are men and 2,367 are women. Among them, 7,722 violators were referred to their respective diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents, 1,933 violators were referred to complete their travel reservations, and 12,765 violators were deported.

The Ministry of Interior warns that anyone who facilitates the entry of infiltrators into the country or provides transportation, shelter, assistance, or services to them shall be penalized with up to 15 years in prison, a maximum fine of SR1 million, and the confiscation of their means of transportation and accommodation.