RIYADH: The Riyadh police department arrested 240 people for violating the country’s labor laws at markets and in various neighborhoods this week.

The raids, which took place in cooperation with the Labor Ministry, saw 60 people arrested Thursday for illegally selling fruit and vegetables at old markets in the south of the city, a local publication reported.

There were also raids carried out in the Manfouha neighborhood and downtown in Batha on Wednesday night, which resulted in the arrest of 180 people of various nationalities.

Officials had first inspected the areas before launching the raids, which are aimed at ensuring that people do not undermine the country’s Saudization program at local markets.

Foreigners were found with fake or expired documents, running their own businesses, selling goods and food on pavements, and using residential premises to store and sell products, the report stated.

Officers also arrested those who had overstayed their Haj and Umrah visas. Those arrested were taken to special shelters where they would be penalized and deported.