Saudi Arabia shuts 436 fake Hajj campaigns, arrests 462 for aiding violators

Dubai: Saudi Arabia has shut down 436 fake Hajj campaigns and arrested 462 individuals for aiding violators during this year’s Hajj, the Ministry of Interior announced on Friday.

Col. Talal Al Shalhoub, the ministry’s security spokesperson, said the crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and organisation of pilgrims performing their sacred rituals. Arrests included those promoting unauthorised campaigns and individuals assisting others in entering the holy sites without the required permits.

The ministry also reported 49 additional violations involving 18 expatriates and 31 Saudi citizens who were caught transporting 197 people without Hajj permits into Mecca.

These violators face penalties of up to SAR 100,000, imprisonment, deportation for non-Saudis with a 10-year re-entry ban, and confiscation of the vehicles used in the offenses. Unauthorised pilgrims may also be fined up to SAR 20,000.

In another incident, 58 individuals were arrested for attempting to enter Mecca without permits. All have been referred to the relevant authorities for legal action.

Al Shalhoub urged pilgrims to follow official instructions and remain in their tents until their scheduled departure times, particularly those planning to leave Mina on the second day of Tashreeq.

The ministry called on all citizens and residents to respect Hajj regulations to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage for everyone.

Huda Ata is an independent writer based in the UAE.