22 Indonesian Pilgrims Deported as Saudi Arabia Begins Enforcing Penalties for Visa Violations
The group was initially detained on May 28 on the outskirts of Medina, as confirmed by Yusron B. Ambarie, the Indonesian Consul General in Jeddah.
"They fly home this evening," stated Ambarie on Saturday, emphasizing the importance of adhering to Saudi laws and regulations.
The deportation comes amidst tightened enforcement by Saudi Arabia’s Public Security, which has begun penalizing pilgrims who undertake the Hajj pilgrimage without proper permits.
The no-permit policy spans several areas, including Mecca, the central area, holy sites, and various security checkpoints, and will remain in effect until June 20, 2024.
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Violators from Indonesia faced not only deportation but also a fine of 10,000 riyals and a 10-year travel ban to Saudi Arabia, according to Ambarie, Antara News reported on Sunday.
Travel coordinators involved in the incident are subject to harsher penalties, including a 50,000 riyal fine, a six-month prison sentence, and a similar decade-long travel ban, he added.
Ambarie reiterated the consequences of non-compliance, urging Indonesian Muslims to respect the host country's regulations to avoid losing their Hajj savings.
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The detained individuals were apprehended after performing miqat at Dhu'l-Hulayfah Mosque, located approximately nine kilometers from Medina.
While the 22 pilgrims have been sent back to Indonesia, the two travel coordinators, along with the bus driver and owner, will face trial.
Source: Agencies
