Saudi Arabia penalises 32 Hajj violators in 2 days in crackdown

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior has cracked down on those violating Hajj rules and restrictions.

In the last two days, the authority has penalised 32 people for transporting those without valid permits for the pilgrimage.

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On May 21, Wednesday, the authority said that it penalised five residents and seven citizens for helping 35 people without a valid Hajj permit. Meanwhile, on May 20, the authority imposed penalties on 12 residents
and eight citizens for transporting 60 people.

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Those assisting people without valid permits are subject to several fines and penalties, including deportation and jail time. Here are the penalties imposed:

• A fine of up to SAR100,000 for transporters and facilitators.

• A fine of up to SAR20,000 for those caught temporarily or attempting to perform Hajj without a permit.

• Deportation of resident violators with a 10-year ban from re-entering the Kingdom after completing the sentence.

• Legal seizure of vehicles used in transport.

• Public naming (defamation).

Earlier, the authority had those who will be caught performing the pilgrimage without a permit or attempting to do so will face a fine of upto SAR20,000. The same penalty applies to visit visa holders who attempt to enter Makkah and stay there from Tuesday, April 29 (Dhul-Qi'dah 1) and until Dhul Hijjah 14 which will fall either on June 10 or 11 according to crescent.