Saturday, October 4, 2025
Over 18,000 Illegal Expats Arrested in Saudi Arabia During Weekly Inspections
Saudi security forces arrested 18,673 illegal residents across the Kingdom last week, according to the Ministry of Interior. The arrests happened between September 25 and October 1 during joint inspections carried out by security teams and other government agencies. Recommend: Expat arrested in Hail for immoral acts at massage parlor
Among those arrested:
➤ 10,673 violated Residency Laws.
➤ 3,822 violated Border Security Laws.
➤ 4,178 violated Labor Laws.
Authorities said 25,478 violators were sent to their embassies to get travel documents, 2,139 were completing travel arrangements, and 11,544 were deported.
During the same period, 1,479 people were caught trying to illegally cross into Saudi Arabia. Of these, 59% were Yemeni, 40% Ethiopian, and 1% from other nationalities. Another 52 people were arrested for trying to leave the Kingdom illegally.
Security forces also arrested 17 individuals for helping violators by providing transportation, shelter, or jobs.
Currently, 31,015 expatriates — including 29,172 men and 1,843 women — are going through legal procedures to enforce regulations.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has warned that anyone who helps people enter the Kingdom illegally, transports them, gives them shelter, or provides any kind of assistance will face severe punishment. See Also: Hamas approves Trump's Gaza peace deal
The penalty can be 15 years in prison, a fine of SR1 million, and confiscation of vehicles or houses used in the crime.
The ministry also asked the public to report any violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 or 996 in other regions of Saudi Arabia.
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| Over 18,000 Illegal Expats Arrested in Saudi Arabia During Weekly Inspections |
