Makkah: The Ministry of Interior has taken decisive action against 17 individuals for violating Hajj regulations and transporting 109 unauthorized persons attempting to perform Hajj without the necessary permits.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the Hajj security forces apprehended three expatriates and 14 citizens at the entrances to Makkah. These individuals were found in breach of Hajj regulations by transporting people who did not possess the required permits for the pilgrimage.
The Ministry has issued administrative decisions involving severe penalties for those involved. The measures include prison sentences, fines that can reach up to 100,000 riyals, public defamation of the transporters, and the deportation of expatriates with a 10-year re-entry ban to the Kingdom upon completion of their penalty. Authorities are also seeking the confiscation of vehicles used in these illegal activities. Additionally, individuals attempting to perform Hajj without a permit face fines of up to 20,000 riyals.
The Ministry of Interior has urged all citizens and expatriates to strictly follow Hajj regulations to ensure the safety and security of all participants during the religious rituals.