Saudi Arabia has deported more than 10,000 expatriates and arrested approximately 14,000 people for violating residency, labour and border security laws during the first week of October, according to a report by Dubai-based Gulf News.
The measures followed joint security operations conducted by the Saudi Ministry of Interior across the country.
According to the report, more than 1,000 people were also detained while attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally across its borders. Most of them were Ethiopian and Yemeni nationals.
Meanwhile, legal proceedings are underway against more than 33,000 foreign nationals, including over 2,500 women, for various violations.
Authorities are referring individuals without valid travel documents to their respective embassies to obtain passports or other necessary travel permits before arranging their repatriation.
The crackdown also targets individuals who provide shelter, employment or transportation to expatriates residing illegally in the country. At least 21 people have been detained on allegations of providing such assistance.
Saudi authorities have warned that helping individuals stay in the country illegally could result in a maximum prison sentence of 15 years and a fine of up to 1 million Saudi riyals. Vehicles and properties used in connection with such offences may also be confiscated.
Meanwhile, security authorities have urged residents in major regions, including Mecca and Riyadh, to report suspected violations by calling 911.
The operations are part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to enforce residency, labour and border security regulations.