Saudi authorities crack down on illegal Hajj entry
MAKKAH: The Hajj Security Forces at Makkah's entrances arrested 18 residents and 31 citizens for transporting 197 individuals without Hajj permits, the Saudi Press Agency reported Friday.
The Ministry of Interior issued administrative decisions through seasonal committees against the transporters, their accomplices, and the unauthorized pilgrims.
Penalties include imprisonment, fines of up to SR100,000 ($26,600), public naming of violators, deportation of residents, and a 10-year re-entry ban after sentencing.
The ministry also called for the confiscation of vehicles used in unauthorized transport and fines of up to SR20,000 for those attempting Hajj without a permit.
In a separate incident, security forces arrested 119 expatriates holding visit visas for violating Hajj regulations by attempting to enter Makkah on foot via a desert route.
All involved individuals were referred to the relevant authorities for legal action, the SPA reported.
Authorities also arrested an Indonesian resident for transporting 24 residents and 23 expatriates with visit visas, attempting to enter Makkah without permits. All were referred to the competent authority.
Earlier, the ministry urged full compliance with Hajj regulations to ensure pilgrim safety and reminded the public that entering Makkah without a Hajj permit from April 29 to June 10 is prohibited.
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