Saudi security crackdown detains over 15,000 migrants violating residency and border laws

Joint field operations by Saudi authorities from 18 June to 24 June 2026 resulted in the detention of 15,231 individuals for breaches of residency, border‑security and labour regulations. The breakdown includes 7,589 residency violations, 4,443 border‑security breaches and 3,199 labour infractions.

Security forces also intercepted 1,763 people attempting illegal entry into the kingdom—55 % Ethiopian and 44 % Yemeni—as well as 53 individuals trying to leave unlawfully. Twenty‑two persons were arrested for facilitating, housing or employing violators. A total of 26,407 irregular migrant workers remain subject to enforcement actions; 16,369 have been referred to their diplomatic missions for travel documents, 3,618 have completed travel arrangements and 11,297 have been expelled.

The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone assisting such violations faces up to 15 years imprisonment, fines up to 1 million riyals, and seizure of transport or housing assets, and urged public reporting via designated hotlines.