Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Saudi Arabian authorities arrested two Indonesian citizens for suspected involvement in organizing unauthorized Hajj pilgrimages. 

“They were arrested at their rented apartment in Syauqiyah, Makkah, on 11 May 2025, “ Indonesia's Consul General in Jeddah, Yusron B. Ambary, confirmed on Thursday (15/5/2025), as quoted by antaranews.com.

The apartment also accommodated 23 Malaysians holding visit visas and fake Nusuk Hajj permits were also found.  The Malaysians have been expelled from Makkah.

Both suspects, identified as TK (51) from Tasikmalaya and AAM (48) from West Bandung, are being held at Al Ka’kiyah Police Station, with extended detention for further investigation.

During consular access,suspect  TK denied knowledge of the fake permits, claiming only to assist a Malaysian identified as UH. Suspect AAM said that his role was limited to escorting pilgrims to shopping areas.

The Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah is monitoring the legal process and urges Indonesians to avoid non-procedural Hajj activities. Violators face severe penalties in Saudi Arabia, including heavy fines, imprisonment, and deportation.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)