The Ministry of Interior said on Saturday that during coordinated field security operations with other government agencies, 21,485 unlawful residents were detained throughout Saudi Arabia last week.

Between January 9 and January 15, 13,562 people were arrested for violating residency requirements, 4,853 for violating border security, and 3,070 for violating labour laws.

Of those arrested, 1,568 were found to have attempted illegal entry into the Kingdom; of these, 47% were Yemeni nationals, 50% were Ethiopians, and 3% were of other nationalities. 64 people were also taken into custody for trying to enter the nation illegally.

About 16 people were arrested for aiding unlawful actions, such as hiring, housing, and transporting offenders. As part of punitive measures, 33,007 illegal residents—30,335 men and 2,672 women—are presently going through the judicial system.

According to the ministry, 2,864 violators were processed for travel reservations, 11,955 were deported, and 25,164 were recommended to their diplomatic offices to get travel credentials.

Authorities issued a warning that anyone who aids in illegal immigration or residency by offering transportation, lodging, or other support might be imprisoned for up to 15 years, fined up to SR1 million, and have their vehicles or other property seized.

The public is asked to report infractions by dialling 999 and 996 in other areas, or 911 in Mecca, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province.