The Saudi Ministry of Interior, through the General Directorate of Public Security, detained a group of individuals for advertising fraudulent Hajj campaigns.
The suspects published fake and misleading Hajj campaign advertisements on social media. The ads claimed to offer pilgrim housing and transportation within the holy sites, perform Hajj on behalf of others, secure and distribute sacrificial animals, and sell Hajj bracelets.
The ministry said the suspects have been referred to the Public Prosecution as legal proceedings against them got underway.
The ministry highlighted the official channels for obtaining Hajj permits: domestic pilgrims must use the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's "Nusuk" platform, while international pilgrims must obtain Hajj visas through authorized entities in the Kingdom via the "Tasreeh" unified digital platform.
Regarding the sale and marketing of sacrificial animal (Hady, Adahi, Fidyah, Sadaqah) bonds, the ministry said the official Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Project for Utilization of Hady and Adahi is the sole authorized entity in charge of this task.
The ministry urged citizens and residents intending to perform Hajj to comply with all regulations and instructions and to report any violations.
