
2 Saudi expats arrested for fraudulent Hajj advertisements, fake service offers
Saudi authorities have arrested two expatriates for publishing fraudulent Hajj advertisements and offering fake services, including the sale of forged sacrificial vouchers, intended to deceive pilgrims, the Hajj and Umrah Prosecution announced.
According to a statement posted by Makkah Region on X, authorities discovered both cash and forged vouchers in the suspects' possession.
The individuals have been taken into custody and referred to the appropriate court, where they face potential penalties including imprisonment, fines, and the confiscation of illicit gains, in accordance with the law.
The Public Prosecution emphasised its ongoing commitment to tracking down anyone who attempts to exploit pilgrims or violate their rights. It also urged the public to follow official regulations and Hajj guidelines, and to remain cautious of deceptive advertisements.
This incident comes shortly after a similar case earlier in May, when an Indonesian resident was arrested for posting fraudulent Hajj ads online and engaging in related scams, according to a report from the Saudi Press Agency.
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