Seven witnesses questioned over alleged hajj dam violations in West Java

The Regional Office of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) for West Java has stated that seven witnesses have been questioned regarding alleged violations in the implementation of ‘dam’ and ‘badal’ Hajj services involving a Hajj and Umrah Guidance Group (KBIHU) in West Java.

“For now, seven individuals have been examined, including pilgrims, KBIHU representatives, and group officials,” said the Head of the West Java Kemenhaj Regional Office, Boy Hari Novian, at Kertajati Airport, Majalengka, on Wednesday.

He noted that the current process involves gathering information and clarifications regarding reports received concerning the execution of ‘dam’ and ‘badal’ Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

Boy stated that Kemenhaj, in collaboration with the West Java Regional Police, is seriously handling the reports of alleged violations involving a KBIHU that has recently gained public attention.

“Accompanied by the West Java Regional Police, we are handling and clarifying the case that has gone viral concerning one of the KBIHU in West Java,” he said.

Boy explained that his office is still deepening the information obtained from witnesses to ensure the actual facts of what occurred during the Hajj pilgrimage are established.

He emphasised that the previously surfaced allegations of violations cannot yet be confirmed as the investigation is still ongoing.

Boy added that witnesses were interviewed individually upon their arrival at Kertajati Airport to facilitate the clarification process.

“We separated them to conduct clarifications and request statements from the parties involved as well as the pilgrims themselves,” he said.

Furthermore, he urged all KBIHU and pilgrims to adhere to the regulations established by the government and to avoid any practices outside of the official rules during the Hajj pilgrimage.

“There must be no activities conducted outside of the regulations, as such actions have the potential to lead to consequences and sanctions in accordance with applicable laws,” he added.