JOGJA PORTAL – Three Indonesian citizens (WNI) were detained by security forces in Mecca after allegedly spreading misleading advertisements regarding illegal Hajj services via social media. This arrest is a strong signal that non-procedural Hajj practices are still lurking, especially in the midst of high public interest in carrying out pilgrimages to the Holy Land.
During this operation, officers confiscated a number of pieces of evidence ranging from cash, computer equipment, to fake Hajj identity cards which were used to carry out the action. The three have now been handed over to the prosecution authorities to undergo further legal proceedings.
Saudi Arabian security authorities emphasized that offering Hajj services without official permission is a serious violation. Moreover, the government is tightening supervision to maintain order and security during the Hajj pilgrimage. Through an official statement, the public—both local residents and expatriates—is encouraged to comply with all applicable regulations and actively report suspicious activities.
This case has again become an alarm for prospective pilgrims so that they are not easily tempted by instant Hajj offers circulating on social media. Apart from the potential to become a victim of fraud, illegal routes also pose significant legal risks.
Also read: Entry to Makkah is tightened, Hajj pilgrims must apply the Buddy System
Meanwhile, the Indonesian Ministry of Hajj was quoted on Thursday (30/4/2026) as saying that the Indonesian Government was strengthening preventive measures by strengthening cross-institutional coordination. This emerged in an audience between Deputy Minister of Religion (Wamenag) Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak and Deputy Chief of Police Dedi Prasetyo, who discussed handling illegal Hajj as well as strengthening the Illegal Hajj Prevention Task Force.
This task force involves elements of the National Police, the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, and the Ministry of Religion to monitor, prevent and take action against fraudulent practices which are increasingly widespread towards the peak of the Hajj season 1447 H/2026 AD.
“Today we are updating the handling of illegal Hajj. Fraudulent practices through fake Hajj advertisements still occur and require collaborative work across institutions,” said Dahnil.
He also confirmed the arrest of three Indonesian citizens in Saudi Arabia related to illegal Hajj promotion methods. The government, he continued, continues to coordinate with local authorities to ensure the legal process runs smoothly while providing assistance.
Not only taking action, the government is also strengthening preventive measures so that people do not fall into the same method. One of the efforts made is to increase the involvement of National Police personnel in Hajj operations in Saudi Arabia, to support the security and comfort of Indonesian pilgrims.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief of Police Dedi Prasetyo emphasized that the National Police will continue to strengthen collaboration, including exchanging information with Saudi Arabian security forces. According to him, illegal Hajj practices often involve repeat perpetrators, so strict legal action is needed.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia Adds 566 Thousand Beds in Makkah Ahead of Hajj 2026
“The Hajj Task Force focuses on prevention as well as law enforcement. There are perpetrators who are even recidivists, so they must be dealt with firmly,” he said.
Dedi also revealed that public reports regarding alleged Hajj fraud showed an increasing trend. Some cases can be resolved through mediation, but if an agreement cannot be reached, the legal process will continue to provide a deterrent effect.
With increased supervision and enforcement, the government is again reminding the public to be more vigilant. Ensure that the entire Hajj departure process is carried out through official channels, with visas and organizers that comply with the provisions, to ensure security, comfort and smooth worship in the Holy Land. ***
