Hajj Permit: NAHCON Warns Pilgrims of Penalties for Defaulters
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has warned intending pilgrims against performing Hajj without a permit.
This warning comes in light of the Saudi Ministry of Interior’s announcement of penalties for individuals who perform Hajj without a permit on Monday.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Interior, individuals who perform or attempt to perform Hajj without a permit will be subject to a fine of up to SAR 20,000, adding that holders of visit visas who attempt to enter or stay in the city of Makkah or the Holy Sites from the 1st of Dhul-Qi’dah until the 14th of Dhul-Hijjah will also face the same fine.
The Ministry stated that those who apply for visit visas for individuals who subsequently perform or attempt to perform Hajj without a permit will face fines of up to SAR 100,000, which will multiply based on the number of individuals issued such visas who violate the regulations.
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It added that anyone who transports or attempts to transport holders of visit visas to Makkah or the Holy Sites during the specified period will face fines of up to SAR 100,000, while individuals who shelter, conceal, or assist holders of visit visas in staying within Makkah or the Holy Sites during the specified period will also face similar fines, which will multiply according to the number of violators sheltered or assisted.
Also, illegal Hajj performers from among residents and visa overstayers will be deported to their home countries and banned from entering the Kingdom for 10 years.
INCNews247 reports that competent court will also be requested to order the confiscation of any land transportation vehicle proven to have been used to transport holders of visit visas to Makkah or the Holy Sites during the specified period.
In light of these regulations, NAHCON urges all intending pilgrims to comply with the requirements and obtain the necessary permits before performing Hajj.
The Commission emphasizes the importance of adhering to the regulations to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth and successful pilgrimage.
