Arrest Made After Saudi Officer Uses ‘Excessive Force’ Against Pilgrim in Mecca
The Special Forces for Hajj and Umrah Security said they had arrested an individual seen in a video circulating on social media showing “inappropriate behavior” toward pilgrims performing Umrah. The brief statement did not specify whether the detained person was a security officer or a pilgrim.
The incident reportedly took place near one of the gates of the Grand Mosque and quickly sparked widespread reactions online, with many users condemning the conduct shown in the footage.
According to reports from regional media outlets, the authorities acted after the video went viral, announcing that an investigation was underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the confrontation.
Unconfirmed social media claims suggested that the pilgrims involved were an Egyptian couple, though officials have not released their identities or the reason for the dispute.
The Saudi Special Forces for Hajj and Umrah Security emphasized that any misconduct toward worshippers in the Two Holy Mosques would not be tolerated and that legal measures would be taken against those found responsible.
The incident has drawn attention to the codes of conduct enforced around Islam’s holiest site, which receives millions of visitors annually for Hajj and Umrah.
Authorities have not provided further details about the identity of the detained person or the progress of the investigation as of Wednesday.
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