*Interior Ministry Security Spokesman: Some Tourism Companies Have Deceived Visit Visa Holders, Encouraging Hajj Violations*

Colonel Talal bin Abdul Mohsen bin Shalhoub, the security spokesman of
the Ministry of Interior, confirmed the success of the 2024 Hajj
season's security plans. These plans were implemented well in advance,
following the directives of the wise leadership and under the continuous
supervision of His Highness the Minister of Interior and Chairman of
the Supreme Hajj Committee.



In an interview with Al-Arabiya today, Colonel Al-Shalhoub emphasized
that the success of these security measures is a testament to the
coordinated efforts between various security, military, and government
agencies. These efforts ensure that pilgrims can perform their rituals
safely, peacefully, and tranquilly.



He reported that 83% of the total mortalities during the Hajj season,
amounting to 1,079 out of 1,301, were among those without Hajj permits.
He expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased.



Colonel Al-Shalhoub also highlighted the proactive efforts to intensify
media and awareness campaigns against performing Hajj without permits
and to enforce stricter penalties for violators. He pointed out that
some individuals have been abusing visit visas and other
non-Hajj-specific visas.



Furthermore, Colonel Al-Shalhoub noted that some tourism companies in
several brotherly countries have deceived visit visa holders by issuing
visas not intended for Hajj and encouraging them to violate regulations
by staying in the holy capital two months before the Hajj season.



He 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 necessary care and services promptly. The absence
of a permit poses challenges in reaching violators to offer services and
healthcare.



Colonel Al-Shalhoub mentioned the continuous updates through the Public
Security’s official social media accounts about apprehending those who
promote fake Hajj campaigns and referring them to the Public
Prosecution. He also appreciated the strict measures taken by some
brotherly countries against these deceptive companies and the corrective
actions they have implemented to prevent future violations.