There are a number of undocumented foreigners roaming Jeddah streets looking for work, particularly in Kilo 8, Al-Zahra Roundabout and Al-Safa District. The authorities have not been able to successfully tackle this situation. Many of these workers gather at a well-known bridge in the city. From the tools in their possession, it appears they offer different services. Sami Al-Harbi, a resident of Al-Rawabi District, said the bridge is infamous for these gatherings. “We have become used to seeing expatriates all around this area, especially in the morning. They offer a lot of services and are of Asian and African nationalities. Some of them are construction workers, plumbers and electricians.” Most of them are either undocumented workers or expatriates who don't work for their sponsors, Al-Harbi added. Faisal Al-Juhani, who lives in Kilo 8, said the area has become a gathering place for undocumented workers who gather there in the morning with their tools. “They are often arrested by the police but soon reappear after a short period.” Brig. Mesfer Al-Juaid, spokesman of Jeddah Governorate Police, said the police often raid these places. “We have secret police patrols that raid these places in addition to police patrols which are stationed in these areas around-the-clock.” Al-Juaid called on citizens and non-Saudis to cooperate with the police and report places where undocumented workers gather, on the telephone number 6425550. Maj. Muhammad Al-Hussain, spokesman of Makkah Region Passport Directorate, said: “We're constantly carrying out raids on such places and we immediately deport violators after their fingerprints are taken.” __
