The Saudi Government ended the amnesty program for undocumented workers in the Kingdom, starting on Monday, November 4, 2013, more than 1,200 men and women inspectors would start raiding companies, markets and public places across the Kingdom to check for undocumented workers.
According to the Ministry of Labor of Saudi Arabia, Saudi nationals who are harboring those undocumented foreign workers will be apprehended also. Arab News reported that, Abdullah Abu Thunain, undersecretary for inspections stated that raids would take place with officials from the country’s security agencies.
The violators of the could face fines of up to SAR 100,000, two years in prison, or both for repeat offenders. The designated Saudi inspectors will check the validity of the workers’ residency cards and their professions.
Earlier reports made by Arab News stated that the District Police Department had formed a task force comprising personnel from various police and security agencies will check different establishments such as pharmacies, barbershops, restaurants, security guards and drivers.
OFW’s in Saudi Arabia were already warned by the Philippine Emb(–foul word(s) removed–)y in Riyadh and their various Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO) to check and comply with the directives given by the Saudi Government. Workers must have valid work contracts stamped by the Chamber of Commerce in their City of Residence.