RIYADH: In Saudi Arabia, surveillance codes to catch violators of residence, employment and border security laws are continuing in force in various regions.
According to the Home Ministry, more than 16,161 law violators were arrested in raids conducted by the security departments in various provinces of the country last week.
Of those arrested, 10,575 were violators of the Residence Document (Iqama), 3,726 were violators of the Border Security Act, and 1,860 were violators of the Labor Act, officials said. 967 people were arrested while trying to enter the country by crossing the border. Of these, 57 percent are Ethiopians, 39 percent are Yemenis, and 4 percent are from other countries. The Saudi Press Agency also reported that the security department arrested 22 people who tried to leave the country illegally through the borders.
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It is a serious offense to facilitate the entry or provide transport, shelter or any other aid or service to a person attempting to enter the country. The Interior Ministry has repeatedly warned that anyone who commits such crimes faces up to 15 years in prison, a maximum fine of 1 million riyals ($260,000), and confiscation of violators’ vehicles and property. Those who notice violations of the law in the country should call 911 for those in Makkah and Riyadh and 996 and 999 for those in other areas.
In Makkah, strict checks are being carried out to catch those who violate Hajj rules and regulations. The Public Safety Department also stated that it has taken punitive measures against more than 20,000 visiting visa holders who violated the law last week. The Ministry of Home Affairs has repeatedly warned that visitors on visit visas will not be allowed to enter or stay in Makkah from May 23.
The ban will be in force till 15th of Dhul Hajj. Visit visa holders should not travel or stay in Makkah during the prohibited period. The Home Ministry has said that there will be no compromise in taking punitive action against those who violate the law. Since it is the Hajj season, authorities are conducting loophole checks in Mecca and Medina.
