Saudi Arabia Cracks Down on Fake Hajj Campaign Amid Safety Concerns

IQNA – Saudi authorities have arrested five foreign nationals in Khamis Mushayt, located in the southern Asir region, for organizing an unauthorized Hajj campaign, part of an intensified effort to prevent fraudulent activity ahead of the annual pilgrimage.

The suspects, identified as four Bangladeshi citizens and one Sudanese national, were detained following an investigation and subsequently referred to the Public Prosecution.

According to officials, the group used social media platforms to advertise false promises of accommodation and transportation services within the sacred sites of Mecca.

These deceptive promotions posed not only a financial threat to unsuspecting pilgrims but also risked adding to the growing logistical challenges during the Hajj season — a period already under strain due to high volumes of attendees.

Authorities highlighted that such unauthorized operations undermine the integrity of the pilgrimage and compromise the safety of worshippers. In 2024, a significant number of individuals, many of whom were undocumented pilgrims, died due to extreme heat conditions in Mecca, underscoring the deadly risks of unregulated participation.

Saudi Public Security urged the public to rely exclusively on licensed service providers and to report any suspicious offers.

Source: Agencies