Foreign Ministry Verifies Three Indonesians Arrested for Allegedly Offering Illegal Hajj in Mecca
The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Jeddah has received information regarding the arrest of three individuals suspected to be Indonesian nationals by Saudi Arabian security forces in the city of Mecca. The three were arrested on suspicion of involvement in fraudulent practices and embezzlement related to illegal Hajj services.
The Director of WNI Protection at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu), Heni Hamidah, revealed that the arrests took place on Tuesday (28/4). The perpetrators are suspected of spreading advertisements for fake Hajj services via social media.
“KJRI Jeddah has received information regarding the arrest of three individuals suspected to be Indonesian nationals by Saudi Arabian security forces in the city of Mecca. The three are suspected of being involved in fraudulent practices and embezzlement related to illegal Hajj services,” said Heni Hamidah during a press conference at the Kemlu office in Central Jakarta on Thursday (30/4/2026).
She stated that, based on initial information, Saudi security forces have seized several pieces of evidence from the perpetrators. The evidence includes cash, computer devices, and counterfeit Hajj cards.
“Two of the three were reported to be using Indonesian Hajj official attire at the time of arrest,” Heni added.
Currently, KJRI Jeddah is conducting verification to confirm the identities of the perpetrators. Kemlu is also continuing to coordinate with Saudi authorities to monitor the applicable legal process in that country.
“Currently, KJRI is verifying the identities of the perpetrators and coordinating with local authorities to monitor the subsequent legal process in accordance with applicable regulations,” she explained.
In connection with this, Heni continued, KJRI Jeddah has issued an advisory to all Indonesians in Saudi Arabia or those planning to depart. Indonesians are urged to fully comply with Saudi Government regulations, especially the principle of la hajj bila tasrih, or no Hajj without official permission.
“The Saudi Government is intensifying its legal approach towards various forms of illegal Hajj violations, including attempts to enter pilgrims without tasrih into the city of Mecca,” Heni explained.
She also asked the public not to be easily tempted by unofficial Hajj offers that are widely circulating on social media. The public is urged to ensure that all Hajj worship processes are carried out through official channels in accordance with legal provisions.
“We also urge Indonesians not to easily believe unofficial Hajj offers, especially those disseminated through social media. Ensure that all Hajj worship processes are carried out through official channels in accordance with applicable regulations,” she concluded.