“This week's security sweeps resulted in the arrest of more than 700 illegal men and women overstayers. Among them were 32 people wanted in various criminal offenses,” said Col. Misfer Al-Juaid, spokesman for Jeddah police.

Criminals arrested were wanted for offenses relating to drug dealing, bootlegging, car thefts, fraud, harboring illegal immigrants and operating unlicensed businesses. The raids were carried out in the Safa, Hindawiya, Kilo 10, Kilo 11, Binladen, Ammariyah, Quawiza and Al-Bawadi districts.

“Arrested suspects in this week’s raids are all in police custody. They will be transferred along with items seized as evidence during the raids to the concerned authorities. Most of the arrests were made during the late afternoon and night,” said Al-Juaid.

“We try to encourage the saying, ‘a stitch in time saves nine.’ Security forces will not relent in capturing any person involved in committing offenses or illicit activities,” said Maj. Gen. Ali Muhammad Al-Ghamdi, director of Jeddah police.

He added the raids would not have been successful without the help of members of the public. People are advised to telephone (02) 642-5550 if they notice any suspicious activities.