Makkah police have arrested two individuals one Yemeni and one Egyptian suspected of running a fraudulent Hajj campaign. The suspects were allegedly using social media platforms to deceive potential pilgrims by offering fake services, including accommodation and transportation in the holy sites, for a fee. The campaign targeted unsuspecting individuals looking to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
The General Directorate of Public Security swiftly intervened and apprehended the suspects, referring them to the Public Prosecution for further investigation and legal action. In an official statement, the Directorate called on both citizens and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to Hajj services. People are encouraged to contact emergency numbers 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions of Saudi Arabia.
This incident is part of a broader crackdown on fraudulent activities targeting pilgrims during the annual Hajj season. Saudi authorities are keen to protect the integrity of the pilgrimage process and ensure the safety of all pilgrims. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, which manages official pilgrim services, has been working to streamline the Hajj experience, having already issued more than 150,000 Nusuk cards for the 2025 pilgrimage. These cards provide pilgrims with essential information about their accommodation, transportation, and other services, helping to prevent scams.
The Saudi authorities are urging the public to use only official channels and verified service providers when making arrangements for Hajj to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes. The Kingdom remains committed to providing a safe, secure, and legitimate pilgrimage experience for Muslims from around the world.