Makkah: The Ministry of Interior's Hajj Security Forces intercepted eight individuals-one resident and seven citizens-for violating Hajj regulations by transporting 21 people without Hajj permits at the entry points to Makkah.

According to Saudi Press Agency, administrative decisions were issued by the seasonal committees against the transporters and their accomplices. Penalties included prison sentences, fines of up to SAR100,000, public naming of the transporters, deportation of the resident after serving the sentence, followed by a 10-year re-entry ban, and legal proceedings to confiscate the vehicles used in the violation. Individuals attempting to perform Hajj without a permit face a fine of up to SAR20,000.

The Ministry of Interior called on all citizens and residents to strictly adhere to Hajj regulations and instructions.