Saudi Arabia Deports 12,660 Law Violators in Weekly Security Crackdown

Saudi Arabian authorities deported 12,660 individuals between November 7 and November 13, 2024, as part of a nationwide crackdown on residency, labor, and border security violations. The Ministry of Interior reported that a total of 20,729 people were arrested during the one-week period across various regions of the Kingdom. Breakdown of Arrests and Violations Official data confirms that of the total arrests, 11,523 individuals were detained for residency law infractions, while 5,711 were held for border security violations. An additional 3,495 people were caught violating labor laws. Security forces also intercepted 1,569 individuals attempting to cross the border into Saudi Arabia, of whom 52% were Ethiopian nationals, 45% were Yemenis, and 3% were of other nationalities. Another 63 people were apprehended while attempting to cross the border out of the Kingdom. The Ministry also targeted those facilitating illegal entry and stay. Fifteen individuals were arrested for involvement in transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Under Saudi law, providing such assistance is a major crime that carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to SAR 1 million, and…