The Saudi Ministry of Interior detains 18 people violating hajj regulations

The Saudi Ministry of Interior said on Sunday that Haj security forces stationed at the entrances to Mecca detained 18 people – two residents and 16 citizens – for violating Haj regulations.

It is said that on June 15, 98 people were transported for trying to perform the pilgrimage without permission.

The General Directorate of Passports issued 17 administrative decisions for persons involved in illegal transport, including a 15-day prison sentence for each carrier and a fine of SAR 10,000 multiplied by the number of violators transported.

Violators also face exposure to public opinion, deportation from the Kingdom if they are residents, and a temporary ban on re-entry.

The authorities ordered the confiscation of the vehicles used to transport the violators.

The Ministry of Home Affairs urged all citizens and residents to strictly follow the hajj regulations to ensure pilgrims feel safe, comfortable and calm while performing hajj rituals.