Saudi authorities arrest 19 over ‘fraudulent’ offers to perform Hajj for others

Nineteen people were arrested in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday for allegedly offering fraudulent services involving Hajj being performed on behalf of others.

Saudi Public Security Department said that of those arrested, three were in breach of border security regulations and four Yemenis were detained for breaching the residence system.

Among the others facing charges are three residents of Pakistani nationality, a resident with Myanmar citizenship, and two Saudi citizens. All are being held for allegedly posting illegal advertisements on social networks and a website about performing Hajj on behalf of others.

The adverts included the offer to secure and distribute sacrifices for pilgrims unable to make the Hajj pilgrimage this year, and an offer of transport services secured through fake institutions.

Legal measures were taken against the 19, and they were referred to the Public Prosecution, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Hajj fraud is prevalent throughout the world because booking a trip to perform the pilgrimage cannot be done without the aid of local offices designated by the Saudi authorities.