Omanghana
Saudi Arabia has deported 14,905 people as authorities intensify enforcement against violations of the Kingdom’s residency, labor and border security regulations.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior said nationwide inspections resulted in the arrest of 14,434 individuals. Among those detained, 6,976 were accused of violating residency laws, 4,110 were arrested for border security offences, and 3,348 were cited for breaches of labor regulations.
Authorities also intercepted 1,450 people who allegedly attempted to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. Ethiopian nationals accounted for 58% of those arrested at the border, while Yemenis represented 41%. Other nationalities made up the remaining 1%.
More than 29,900 expatriates are reportedly undergoing enforcement procedures. Some have been referred to their respective diplomatic missions to obtain the documents required for repatriation, while others are completing travel arrangements.
The Interior Ministry also warned residents against transporting, employing, sheltering or otherwise assisting people living in the country illegally.
Those convicted of facilitating illegal entry or residence could face up to 15 years in prison and fines of as much as one million Saudi riyals. Vehicles and properties used in committing such offences may also be confiscated.
Saudi Arabia, the Middle East’s second-largest economy by gross domestic product, regularly conducts nationwide campaigns to enforce immigration and employment laws. The latest operation forms part of the government’s efforts to regulate its foreign workforce and restructure the labor market under its Vision 2030 program.
Source: Omanghana
