Saudi Border Guards Arrest 1,158 Illegal Border Crossers in One Week

RIYADH – Saudi security forces arrested a total of 8,943 illegal residents in one week. The arrests were made during a joint inspection with relevant government agencies between 14 and 20 May 2026, the Saudi Ministry of Interior announced last Saturday. Those arrested included 4,638 violators of the Residence Law, 2,810 violators of the Border Security Law, and 1,495 violators of the Labour Law, according to Saudi Gazette, Sunday (24 May 2026). A total of 1,158 people were apprehended attempting to cross into the Kingdom, comprising 38% Yemeni nationals, 61% Ethiopian nationals, and 1% from other countries. Around 54 people were arrested attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally. 9,832 illegal residents were deported, while 16,402 violators were referred to their diplomatic missions for travel documents and 1,619 were referred to resolve travel reservations. Eight individuals involved in providing transport, accommodation, and employment to violators were also arrested. 23,679 expatriates, including 22,629 men and 1,050 women, are currently undergoing legal procedures. The Saudi Ministry of Interior warned that anyone facilitating illegal entry into the Kingdom, transporting them, providing accommodation or assistance, will face up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to 1 million Saudi Riyals (Rp4.7 billion), with vehicles and properties used for such activities seized. The Ministry urged the public to report violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern Province, and 999 and 996 in other regions.