Authorities detain 8 suspects for transporting 28 people not permitted to perform Hajj

The Interior Ministry has announced that Hajj Security Forces have apprehended eight suspects at Makkah’s entrances for transporting 28 people who did not have Hajj permits, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The suspects — three non-Saudis and five from the Kingdom — were stopped for breaching Hajj rules and regulations after transporting violators who had failed to obtain permits required to perform Hajj.

The General Directorate of Passports’ seasonal administrative committees issued administrative decisions against the offenders, who will each serve 15 days in prison and pay a fine of SR10,000 ($2,666) for each violator transported.

The offenders will also be named and shamed and the non-Saudis will be deported after serving their prison terms.

Authorities have also impounded three vehicles which were used to transport the violators.

The ministry has called on all citizens and expatriates to abide by Hajj rules, regulations and instructions so that all pilgrims enjoy a safe, secure and comfortable time performing Hajj rituals.