Surabaya Hajj Committee Returns 9,478 Pilgrims, 15 Deaths Reported

The Hajj Departure Committee (PPIH) for the Surabaya Debarkation has returned 9,478 pilgrims, accounting for 22 per cent of the 25 groups that have arrived at the Surabaya Hajj Dormitory as of Monday (8/6). Out of this number, 15 individuals were reported to have passed away.

As’adul Anam, Chairman of the Surabaya Debarkation PPIH, stated that 28 groups have landed, with 29 groups having arrived but not yet reached the dormitory. He confirmed that the current count of 9,478 pilgrims covers the first 25 groups.

Regarding the fatalities, Anam noted that 15 pilgrims died during the return phase. The breakdown includes 12 deaths in Saudi Arabia, one in Indonesia, and two during the journey to the Hajj Dormitory, including one death on an aircraft.

Anam clarified that these figures pertain specifically to the return phase. When combined with the departure phase, the total number of deceased pilgrims is estimated to be around 52.

Additionally, the PPIH noted that six pilgrims remained in Saudi Arabia to undergo medical treatment, though one person has since been able to return to Indonesia with a subsequent group. The committee continues to monitor the health of those remaining in the Holy Land through Hajj officers.

Despite the fatalities, Anam remarked that the general health condition of the pilgrims during this year’s Hajj season appeared better than in previous years, based on health data comparisons before and after the peak rituals at Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina (Armuzna).