Saudi Arabia On High Alert To Safeguard 1.8 Million Pilgrims During Hajj

MAKKAH, June 1 (Bernama) -- With over 1.8 million pilgrims set to perform the Hajj this year, Saudi Arabia has placed its security forces on the highest level of alert to ensure their safety and the smooth conduct of the annual pilgrimage.

Director of Public Security and Chairman of the Hajj Security Committee, Lieutenant General Mohammad bin Abdullah Al-Bassami, said the forces stand ready to respond decisively to any threats that could endanger pilgrims or disrupt the rites.

He made the remarks during a parade of security personnel on Saturday evening, just days before the wukuf ritual at Arafah.

Saudi Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, was also present to inspect the readiness of the forces in carrying out their field duties and ensuring the safety and protection of pilgrims.

The parade featured personnel from various agencies, along with security vehicles, machinery, and advanced equipment.

A key highlight was the simulation of multiple security scenarios, demonstrating the teams’ high level of preparedness to handle and neutralise potential threats.

Saudi authorities earlier announced that the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah will begin this Wednesday, with the Day of Arafah to be observed on Thursday, followed by Aidiladha on Friday.

According to the General Authority for Statistics, a total of 1,833,164 Muslims from around the world are expected to perform the Hajj this year, including 1,611,310 international pilgrims and 221,854 domestic pilgrims.

-- BERNAMA