MAKKAH: The Ministry of Interior is continuing its efforts to prevent people without Hajj permits from entering or staying in Makkah and the holy sites, warning that violators and facilitators will be arrested and penalized.
Hajj Security Forces at Makkah’s entrances arrested six residents and 14 citizens for transporting 99 individuals without Hajj permits, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
In a separate incident, the forces arrested two citizens for transporting 15 individuals in violation of Hajj regulations and attempting to bring them into Makkah.
Penalties include imprisonment, fines of up to SR100,000 ($26,600), the 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 transportation and fines of up to SR20,000 for those attempting Hajj without a permit.
It urged full compliance with Hajj regulations to ensure pilgrim safety and reminded the public that entering Makkah between April 29 and June 10 without a permit is prohibited.
