Saudi police arrest multiple individuals across cities for Hajj 2025 scams involving permits, fake campaigns, and sacrificial animal fraud.
In an ongoing effort to protect the sanctity and security of the annual pilgrimage, Saudi authorities have launched a widespread crackdown on fraudulent Hajj activities ahead of Hajj 2025.
Multiple arrests have been made across Madinah and Makkah involving fake services, unauthorised transportation, and exploitation of pilgrims using social media scams and illegal shelters.
Madinah Police arrested four Indonesian residents for defrauding pilgrims by offering fake Hajj sacrificial animal (Hady) services in exchange for money. Legal action has been initiated and the suspects have been referred to the Public Prosecution.
In Makkah, two Indonesian residents were detained for running fake Hajj campaigns online and promoting counterfeit Nusuk Hajj cards. They also illegally sheltered 23 visitors holding non-Hajj visit visas. The suspects face prosecution while those sheltered were handed over to the competent authority for legal penalties.
Permit and transport violations
On Sunday, the Hajj Security Forces intercepted two individuals attempting to smuggle seven expatriates without valid Hajj permits into Makkah in a private vehicle. All parties have been referred to the appropriate authorities for penalties.
In a similar case last week, an Indian resident was arrested for using a patient transport vehicle to bring four unauthorised individuals to Makkah. None held valid Hajj documentation, and the case has been forwarded to the legal committee for enforcement.
Public advisory
Public Security has urged residents and citizens to be vigilant and avoid engaging with unofficial Hajj service providers. Warnings were issued against fraudulent advertisements offering Hajj packages, sacrificial services, bracelets, or transport. Violations can be reported by dialling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 elsewhere.
Source: travelsdubai
