Latest news with #AlBassami
Gulf Insider
2 days ago
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Blocks 260,000 Unauthorised Pilgrims From Entering Mecca
More than 260,000 people without Hajj permits have been turned away from entering Mecca, as part of the Kingdom's large-scale security crackdown to ensure a safe and regulated pilgrimage season. Speaking at a joint press conference of Hajj security commanders, Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Bassami, Director of Public Security and Chairman of the Hajj Security Committee, confirmed that a total of 269,000 unregistered pilgrims were prevented from reaching the holy city of Mecca. Security authorities arrested 1,239 people attempting to transport unauthorised pilgrims and imposed penalties on more than 75,000 violators of Hajj regulations. They also impounded over 5,000 vehicles and turned back 110,000 others at checkpoints for attempting to carry illegal pilgrims. More than 415 fake Hajj offices were shut down, and permanent checkpoints at Mecca's entry points remain active to intercept further violations. Al Bassami highlighted the use of artificial intelligence to support enforcement efforts and ensure the integrity of the pilgrimage. 'Security personnel will remain vigilant against anyone seeking to violate Hajj regulations,' he said. Meanwhile, Major General Dr Saleh Saad Al Murabba, Director General of Passports, revealed that over 1.47 million international pilgrims have arrived so far, with the Mecca Route Initiative expanding to eight countries and 12 embarkation points. The initiative streamlines immigration procedures at departure airports, using advanced technologies and multilingual staff. Field teams are also deployed with mobile equipment to assist pilgrims and identify unregistered individuals. Maj. Gen Al Murabba urged pilgrims to depart promptly after completing Hajj to avoid legal consequences, assuring that preparations are in place to facilitate smooth exits. The Ministry of Interior has reiterated its full readiness to deal firmly with any threats to Hajj security. The State Security Presidency confirmed the implementation of robust crowd management plans, particularly at the Jamarat facility, while Special Emergency Forces are conducting field missions to protect pilgrims and prevent infiltration.
Asharq Al-Awsat
3 days ago
- General
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Interior Minister Oversees Annual Ceremony for Hajj Security Forces
Saudi Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, inspected the preparedness of the Hajj Security Forces to carry out their field duties in maintaining the security and safety of the pilgrims. The inspection took place during the minister's patronage of the annual ceremony organized by the participating forces for the 1446 AH Hajj season. In a speech during the ceremony, Director of Public Security and Chairman of the Hajj Lieutenant-General Mohammad bin Abdullah Al-Bassami, Director of the Security Committee, affirmed that the wise leadership has mobilized all capabilities and resources to prioritize services for the Hajj and well-care of the pilgrims. He noted that these significant efforts have produced exemplary outcomes in crowd management, coordination, planning, and integration among various sectors, achieving the desired results and ensuring the pilgrims experience the highest levels of security and safety. Al-Bassami also emphasized that the Hajj Security Forces are at the highest level of readiness and fully capable of responding firmly and effectively to any threats to pilgrims' security or disruptions to their rituals, ensuring a safe environment for them to perform their rites. The ceremony included field exercises simulating various security scenarios, displays of security vehicles and advanced equipment, in addition to showcasing security aviation and specialized vehicles used during the Hajj season. The ceremony was attended by several princes and officials.
