RIYADH: The Ministry of Interior recorded 21,320 violations of different stature in Saudi Arabia between March 5-11, with 15,339 related to residency, 3,687 to border security and 2,294 to labor laws.
Border authorities apprehended 1,683 people attempting to cross into the Kingdom illegally, including 36 percent Yemenis, 62 percent Ethiopians and 2 percent from other nationalities.
They also arrested 72 people for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally.
A total of 22 people involved in transporting, sheltering and employing violators were arrested.
About 14,363 people were detained for violating the regulations and were instructed to contact their countries’ embassies or consulates to obtain proper travel documents. In addition, 2,206 were advised to make travel arrangements and 8,104 were repatriated.
The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone who facilitates the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom, transports them within its territory, or provides them with shelter, assistance, or other services may face penalties of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million ($266 million).
Vehicles used for transport and properties used for shelter may also be confiscated.
The ministry highlighted that such acts constitute major crimes that warrant arrest and urged the public to report any violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.
