RIYADH: Colonel Talal bin Abdul Mohsen bin Shalhoub, the security spokesman of the Ministry of Interior has confirmed the success of the 2024 Hajj season’s security plans, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. He added that these plans were implemented well in advance, after the directives of the wise leadership and under the continuous supervision of the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee.
In an interview with media, he emphasized that the success of these security steps is a testament to the coordinated efforts between various security, military, and government departments. These efforts ensure that Hajj pilgrims can perform their rituals safely, peacefully, and tranquilly, the SPA added.
He said that 83% of the total mortalities during the Hajj season, amounting to 1,079 out of 1,301, were among those without Hajj permits. The spokesperson expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased.
Colonel Al-Shalhoub has highlighted the proactive efforts to intensify awareness campaigns against performing Hajj without permits and to enforce stricter penalties for violators. He pointed out that some people have been abusing visit visas and other non-Hajj-specific visas.
Furthermore, the spokesperson noted that some tourism firms in several brotherly nations have deceived visit visa holders by issuing visas not intended for Hajj and encouraging them to violate regulations by staying in the holy capital 60 days before the Hajj season.
The spokesperson also emphasized that a Hajj permit is not merely a transit card but a crucial tool that facilitates access to pilgrims and identifies their locations to provide essential care and services promptly. The absence of a permit poses challenges in some violators to offer healthcare and services.
The spokesperson also mentioned the continuous updates through the Public Security’s official social media accounts regarding apprehending those who promote fake Hajj campaigns and referring them to the Public Prosecution. He appreciated the strict steps taken by some brotherly nations against these deceptive companies and the corrective actions they have implemented to prevent future violations, the SPA reported.
