RIYADH: Makkah police have detained two Egyptian residents for orchestrating a fraudulent Hajj campaign through social media, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) on Saturday.
The scam campaign falsely assured pilgrims of accommodation, transportation, and the arrangement of sacrifices.
Authorities have taken legal action against the individuals and referred them to the Public Prosecution, according to SPA.
The Directorate of Public Security has urged citizens and residents to remain cautious and avoid engaging with suspicious online advertisements.
Such ads might offer services like performing Hajj on behalf of others, arranging and distributing sacrifices, selling Hajj bracelets, or providing transportation.
These scams are often run by fictitious entities and individuals aiming to deceive and defraud potential pilgrims, SPA noted.
Authorities have warned that anyone involved in such fraudulent activities will face legal consequences.
To ensure a safe and legitimate Hajj experience, the Directorate of Public Security advises citizens and residents to follow official Hajj regulations and instructions.
Additionally, people are encouraged to report suspected violations by calling the designated hotlines: 911 for Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province regions, and 999 for all other regions of Saudi Arabia.
