Saudi Hajj Security Forces Apprehend 20 Individuals For Transporting Unauthorised Pilgrims

MAKKAH, June 1 (Bernama-SPA) -- Saudi Arabia hajj security forces at the entrances to Makkah have apprehended 20 individuals—five expatriates and 15 citizens—for violating hajj regulations by transporting 94 individuals without hajj permits.

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Ministry of Interior has initiated administrative decisions against all involved parties: the transporters, their accomplices, and the unauthorised pilgrims.

These decisions include prison sentences, fines reaching up to SAR100,000 and public defamation for transporters. Expatriate violators will face deportation and a 10-year ban from entering Saudi Arabia after serving their sentences. Vehicles used in these violations will be confiscated.

The ministry reiterated that anyone attempting to perform hajj without a permit will face a fine of up to SAR20,000.

The Ministry of Interior urged all citizens and residents to strictly adhere to Hajj regulations and instructions. This compliance is crucial to ensuring the safety and security of all pilgrims as they perform their sacred rituals.

-- BERNAMA-SPA