UAE- 457 illegal residents rounded up from across country
(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) The law enforcement agencies have rounded up 457 illegal immigrants from across the country, the Ministry of Interior said on Tuesday.
According to the ministry, 268 were arrested in Abu Dhabi and its suburbs, 95 in Al Ain, 54 in Ajman and 40 in Ras Al Khaimah.
"The Ministry of Interior has intensified its efforts to end violation of the country's residency laws. It has to end, and that can only be achieved with the full cooperation of law-abiding residents and through media and community outreach," said Major-General Nasser Al Awadi Al Menhali, Assistant Undersecretary for Naturalisation, Residency and Port Affairs at the Ministry of Interior.
He said the ministry has launched a campaign, No to Violators, with a greater public participation to increase the awareness about the importance of combating the violators of residency law.
Al Menhali added the campaign will be further intensified particularly in regions where illegal immigrants find shelter until the country is free of these offenders. "So far, this recent campaign has proved successful with an increasing number of offenders apprehended and referred to the prosecution for legal action. The offenders include those entering the country illegally, overstaying visitors and those absconding from their employers and whose residence permit is invalid or expired," he explained.
Al Menhali reaffirmed that the ministry will spare no efforts in tracking down the offenders no matter where they hide.
He called upon citizens and expatriates to continue their cooperation with law enforcement agencies to help apprehend these offenders.
"If you come across any illegal immigrant or offender or have tip about their whereabouts, report to the relevant authorities. Never cover up their presence and never harbour them. It is a grave crime to do that and if found sheltering them or covering up their presence, criminal charges will be framed against you to face the law with huge fine and jail term," the official warned.
Al Menhali further cautioned that the presence of residency law offenders could be a major risk to the security and safety of the community as well as a threat to the national security.
The official advised residents to immediately call the 80080 hotline, which is open 24 hours throughout the week, at the ministry to report the presence of illegal immigrants.
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