Rabat – Saudi Authorities have expelled more than 205,000 people attempting to perform the Hajj pilgrimage without a permit.
Such violations are a recurring issue, mainly committed by individuals who fail to obtain permits due to high demand, limited quotas, or financial constraints. Some also fall victim to fraudulent offices that promise fake permits.
These violations occur through unauthorized entry routes, using forged documents, or being transported in private vehicles to bypass security.
Mohammed Al-Bassami, the Director of Public Security and Chairman of the Hajj Security Committee, announced new legislation to deal with such violations during the Hajj season.
He revealed that Saudi Public Security has identified over 415 fake Hajj offices and turned back more than 269,000 pilgrims without permits.
Authorities have imposed penalties on more than 75,000 violators of Hajj regulations. Al-Bassami added that security teams arrested 1,239 individuals attempting to transport unauthorized pilgrims.
Saudi Public Security turned back a total of 110,000 vehicles at the entrances of Mecca for transporting these individuals, he added.
Saudi authorities have established permanent security checkpoints at the entrances to the holy city to stop violators.
Authorities are aiming to ensure safety and proper organization of the pilgrimage, as these violations could cause serious overcrowding and increase risks of accidents and stampedes.
Millions of Muslims from across perform the annual pilgrimage each year. The religious ritual is one of the five pillars of Islam, an obligation for all worshippers physically and financially capable of performing it.
