RIYADH: Saudi authorities have arrested 18,836 individuals in a single week for violations of residency, labor and border security laws, according to official figures.
From January 1 to January 7, a total of 11,710 people were detained for violating residency (Iqama) laws, while 4,239 others were arrested for attempting to cross the border illegally. Another 2,887 people were taken into custody for violations of labor regulations.
During the same period, 10,195 illegal expatriates were deported to their home countries.
Authorities also reported the arrest of 1,741 individuals who attempted to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. Of those arrested, 60 percent were Ethiopian nationals, 39 percent were Yemeni, while the remaining one percent belonged to other nationalities.
In addition, 46 people were detained for attempting to cross Saudi borders into neighboring countries illegally. Officials said 19 individuals were also arrested for their involvement in facilitating illegal travel, providing accommodation, employment, or shelter to violators.
Saudi authorities have reiterated their commitment to continuing nationwide campaigns to enforce residency, labor, and border security laws.
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