RIYADH: Security officials in Saudi Arabia have said that as many as 17,000 people have been arrested until Friday for attempting to perform Hajj without a permit, Arab media reported on Saturday.
17,000 Arrested for Attempting to Perform Hajj Without Permit: Saudi Officials
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) the Director of Public Security and Head of the Hajj Security Committee, Lt. Gen. Mohammed Al-Bassami, confirmed as many as 17,615 individuals were arrested, including more than 9,509 violators of residency, labor and border security rules. He added that organizers of 105 fake Hajj campaigns were also captured from different parts of the KSA. Officials said that all arrested people have been referred to the Public Prosecution for further action.
The Director of Public Security and Head of the Hajj Security Committee said more than 202,695 people were returned from the Makkah entry points, who were attempting to perform Hajj without permit. He maintained that more than 128,999 vehicles were not allowed to enter as the drivers were not holding licenses.
Gen. Mohammed Al-Bassami said that 33 individuals, who transported Hajj pilgrims without permits were apprehended at the entrances to Makkah to executive the regulations and rules against them.
He further said that the Hajj security personnel executed the security and organizational plans with professionalism and high efficiency.
