Six Pakistanis arrested in Saudi Arabia for contravening Hajj restrictions.

Saudi Arabian authorities have apprehended six Pakistani nationals for contravening Hajj laws ahead of this year’s journey.

Reports indicated that one individual was apprehended for residing in Makkah without a valid Hajj permit, while five others were seized for allegedly aiding pilgrims without necessary authorisation.

Security measures in Saudi Arabia have been intensified, and the existing regulations permit admission and lodging in Makkah exclusively for individuals with a Hajj visa. Individuals holding tourist or other temporary visas post-April 18 are deemed to be in breach.

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has cautioned that violations of Hajj permit regulations may incur fines between 20,000 and 100,000 Saudi riyals.

Previously, individuals on Umrah visas were instructed to leave the country by April 18, facing fines, six months’ imprisonment, and deportation if they remained. Offering lodging or additional assistance to anyone lacking a Hajj permission may result in fines of up to 100,000 riyals.