JEDDAH, 15 September 2005 — Security forces raided 317 houses and arrested over 1,000 overstayers during early morning security operations in various districts in Jeddah yesterday.
According to police, 37 individuals with criminal records were detained in the operation. Police said they were being investigated. Eleven government sectors, including security, participated in the operation which was led by Brig. Gen. Misfer Al-Zuhami, head of the Jeddah police.
The police raided a number of illegal cement manufacturing factories in Al-Bawadi, houses of prostitution, illegal tailor shops, illegal copies of CDs and DVDs, illegal international phone cabins and unlicensed restaurants.
As the Kingdom moves to full membership of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the police have been performing weekly raids, playing their part by confiscating illegal merchandise and arresting those who supply them.
