Inp.polri.go.id - Badung. Immigration officers at Ngurah Rai International Airport stopped 13 Indonesian citizens from departing on Friday,, after suspecting they were attempting to perform the Hajj through nonprocedural means.

“We are committed to professional and humane immigration oversight to prevent illegal Hajj departures,” said Ngurah Rai Immigration Chief Bugie Kurniawan on Saturday (23/5/2026), as cited by antaranews.com.

Officers initially questioned seven passengers bound for Kuala Lumpur and found inconsistencies in their travel purpose and visas. Six others from the same group had already passed through the autogate system but were recalled for further checks. Investigations revealed conflicting statements and a WhatsApp group titled “Hebat Haji 2026,” indicating plans to travel onward to Dubai for Hajj outside official procedures.

All 13 were handed over to Ngurah Rai Airport Police for further investigation under Indonesia’s Immigration Law and related regulations. Authorities urged the public to use official channels for Hajj to ensure safety and legal protection.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)