Makkah: The Ministry of Interior announced that security forces stationed at the entrances to Makkah arrested nine individuals-comprising four expatriates and five citizens-for violating Hajj regulations by transporting 111 individuals who did not possess Hajj permits.

According to Saudi Press Agency, seasonal administrative committees promptly issued decisions against the violators, which included a range of penalties such as prison sentences, fines reaching up to SAR 100,000, public defamation of the transporters, and deportation of expatriates with a 10-year ban from re-entry into the Kingdom. Authorities also ordered the confiscation of vehicles used in transporting the violators.

Additionally, the Ministry warned that any person attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit could face fines of up to SAR 20,000.

In its statement, the Ministry urged all citizens and residents to strictly comply with Hajj regulations to ensure that the pilgrimage is conducted in an organized, safe, and secure manner, allowing the pilgrims to fulfill their religious duties with ease and tranquility.