Saudi residents, citizens caught violating Hajj regulations, face fines, deportation
Hajj security officials caught five residents and nine citizens in Mecca for violating Hajj regulations by transporting 44 people without permits, the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Monday.
Officials penalized the transporters and the unauthorized pilgrims with fines up to SAR100,000 ($26,662) and deportation with a 10-year re-entry ban to Saudi Arabia, according to the report.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj has urged all citizens and residents to comply with Hajj regulations 'to ensure a safe and secure Hajj for all.'
The ministry announced on Monday that individuals who shelter or attempt to shelter holders of any type of visa in any form of residential accommodation, including hotels, apartments, private residences or pilgrim housing facilities, will face hefty fines of up to SAR100,000.
This applies to those assisting individuals to remain in Mecca and the holy sites unlawfully from Dhu Al-Qi'dah 1(May 26) to Dhu Al-Hijjah 14 (June 9). Penalties will increase proportionally based on the number of people sheltered or assisted.
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