Illegal Hajj: Three Indonesians Arrested by Saudi Authorities

Saudi security forces, particularly in the city of Mecca, have been conducting intensive raids against all parties suspected of involvement in illegal Hajj violations. Various law enforcement and arrest operations against individuals attempting to enter Mecca without permits have been evident in official social media posts from Saudi security authorities. Field observations have also shown a series of buses transporting violators of the permit rules out of Mecca. “This demonstrates the seriousness of Saudi security forces in combating illegal Hajj practices,” said the Indonesian Consul General in Jeddah, Yusron B. Ambary, in his statement on Thursday (30 April 2026). On Tuesday (28 April 2026), three individuals suspected to be Indonesian nationals were arrested in Mecca. During the raid on their residence, initial evidence pointing to illegal Hajj activities was found. “Two of the three suspected Indonesians were arrested while wearing Indonesian Hajj official attire. Verification of the identities of all three is currently underway,” Yusron stated. According to him, the Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah will promptly coordinate with Saudi security authorities to oversee the legal proceedings for the three suspected Indonesians. “Therefore, the Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah once again urges all Indonesian nationals to comply with Hajj permit regulations,” Yusron said.