Through extensive crackdowns on illegal residents, Saudi Arabia keeps strict application of residence, labor, and border security rules. Saudi security agents detained more than 19,500 people breaking these rules in a recent national campaign. Coordinated by several government departments, the week-long campaign aimed at anyone living, working, or illegally entering the Kingdom.

Over the past week, Saudi security forces have arrested 19,541 illegal immigrants from all throughout the Kingdom in a major sweep-through. The Ministry of Interior reported on Saturday the arrests made during cooperative field security operations by many government agencies between December 26 and January 1.

The official records state that among the detained were 3,364 found in violation of the Labor Law, 4,775 broke the Border Security Law, and 11,402 violated the Residency Law. Moreover, 953 people were apprehended trying to unlawfully enter Saudi Arabia. Of them, 40% were nationals from Yemen, 58% from Ethiopia, and the other 2% from several other countries. Security agents also apprehended 129 persons trying to illegally depart the nation.

Authorities also caught 27 people helping and abetting illegal immigrants with transportation, housing, or job. Legal actions against 33,653 offenders-30,724 men and 3,009 women-have followed from the raid. These people are now in different phases of legal processes, including deportation handling.

22,827 detainees have been sent to their respective diplomatic embassies to pick travel documentation as part of the deportation policies. 5,365 people are in the midst of finalizing their travel plans before deportation as well. Authorities have therefore deported 8,654 Kingdom offenders so far.

The Ministry of Interior has underlined once more its will to enforce Saudi Arabia's residence, labor, and border security rules. Strong warnings have been issued by officials against people or organizations allowing illegal immigrants, transportation of illegal residents, or lodging or other kind of support. Violators could pay fines of up to SR1 million and suffer harsh penalties, up to 15 years in prison. Furthermore seized will be any cars used to move illegal immigrants or homes utilized for refuge.

Authorities have advised the people to keep alert and document any infractions of labor regulations or residence rules. While residents of other areas can utilize the helpline numbers 999 and 996, individuals living in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province can report cases by phoning 911. Maintaining national security and guaranteeing conformity with Saudi laws depends on public collaboration, the Ministry underlined.

This national operation emphasizes the Kingdom's continuous attempts to control its labor market, enhance security policies, and stop illegal migration. The Saudi government is still dedicated to upholding the law and making sure every person living and working in the nation follows legal criteria.