Gulf country tightens measures; Tens of thousands of expatriates detained

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is tightening inspections to find those violating work, residence and border security laws. During inspections conducted in various parts of the country from January 8 to 14, 18,054 people were arrested for violations. Of these, 11,343 were arrested for residence law violations, 3,858 for border security law violations, 2,853 for labour law violations, and 1,491 for cross-border infiltration.

Security forces also arrested 23 people who provided accommodation or travel facilities to lawbreakers. Legal proceedings are currently underway against those arrested. Of these, 14,621 were deported after completing the procedures. Those without travel documents have been instructed to cooperate with the relevant embassies or consulates to obtain documents as soon as possible.

The Ministry of Interior announced strict penalties for those who provide transportation and accommodation to violators. The penalty is up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to 1 million riyals. The vehicles and buildings used in the crime will be confiscated. The government said that those with information about violations should report them to the authorities by calling 911 in Riyadh, Mecca and the Eastern Province, and 911 or 996 in other areas.