By our correaspondent
RIYADH: Saudi authorities have intensified a crackdown on violations of Hajj regulations and arrested six Pakistani citizens, according to reports.
One individual was taken into custody for staying in Mecca without a Hajj permit, while five others were arrested on allegations of assisting pilgrims without official authorisation.
Security has been tightened in Saudi Arabia ahead of the Hajj season, with current rules allowing only holders of Hajj visas to enter and stay in Mecca.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Interior, fines for violating Hajj permit rules can range from 20,000 to 100,000 Saudi riyals.
Authorities had earlier instructed holders of Umrah visas to leave the country by 18 April, warning that failure to comply could result in fines of up to 50,000 riyals, six months’ imprisonment and deportation.
They further stated that providing accommodation or other facilities to individuals without Hajj permits is also a punishable offence, carrying fines of up to 100,000 riyals.
