Four arrested for promoting fake Hajj permits, visas

Four suspects have been referred to the Public Prosecution in Makkah after police apprehended them for promoting counterfeit Hajj permits and visas on social media. (AFP/File)

• Makkah police arrested two citizens and two Pakistani residents
• The suspects have been referred to the Public Prosecution

MAKKAH: Four suspects have been referred to the Public Prosecution in Makkah after police apprehended them for promoting counterfeit Hajj permits and visas on social media.
The Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday that Makkah police arrested the quartet — two citizens and two Pakistani residents.
Legal action has been taken against the suspects, who were referred to the Public Prosecution for further investigations.
Last month, the General Directorate of Public Security warned citizens in the Kingdom to disregard fraudulent advertisements on social media.
The authorities highlighted adverts that falsely claim to facilitate various aspects of Hajj, including performing Hajj on behalf of others, securing and distributing Adahi (sacrifices), selling Hajj bracelets, and providing transportation, SPA reported.
The department cautioned that severe penalties would be imposed on individuals found to be engaging in such activities.
Any violations should be promptly reported by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, or 999 in the rest of the Kingdom, the department said.