Deputy Hajj Minister: Number of Illegal Hajj Pilgrims in 2026 Decreases This Year

Jakarta - The Deputy Minister for Hajj and Umrah (Wamenhaj), Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, stated that the number of illegal Hajj pilgrims in 2026 has decreased compared to the previous year. “We also ensure that this year there is a decrease in the number of illegal Hajj pilgrims,” said Deputy Minister Dahnil after inspecting the Pondok Gede Hajj Dormitory in Jakarta, as reported by ANTARA on Tuesday (12/5/2026). Dahnil said that compared to the previous year at the same period, namely the 22nd day of Hajj departure operations, the Hajj Task Force successfully prevented 80 Indonesian citizens suspected of intending to perform Hajj non-procedurally. “Last year, by the same date, we had already found 1,200 illegal Hajj pilgrims,” said Deputy Minister Dahnil. “Why is that? Because there is firm legal action and a deterrent effect. Then there is a fear effect, because to be honest, our raids are conducted massively, our preventions are carried out massively, so the decline in illegal Hajj is significant,” said Dahnil. The Deputy Minister appreciated the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Imipas) and the National Police for their support in supervising and taking action against illegal Hajj practices. He emphasised that the government will not hesitate to revoke the operational permits of Hajj Guidance Institutes (KBIH) proven to commit violations, such as organising unofficial city tours or imposing illicit levies on pilgrims. “We have already warned that if there are stubborn KBIH, for example, still organising city tours, then imposing illicit levies. I have emphasised to all our ranks that we will immediately revoke their permits,” said Dahnil. According to him, unofficial levy practices, including additional fees for certain services such as wheelchair use or proxy worship, are a serious concern for the government. He stressed that the government will continue to crack down on KBIH that violate regulations to protect Hajj pilgrims from harmful practices. “If there are KBIH that still engage in improper practices later, such as illicit levies, wheelchair carts, proxies, and so on, or city tours that are not appropriate, we ensure we will immediately revoke their permits,” said Dahnil.