Mina, The Ministry of Interior has reported that the Hajj security forces stationed at the entrances to Makkah apprehended 18 individuals-two residents and 16 citizens-who violated Hajj regulations by transporting, on June 15, a group of 98 individuals attempting to perform Hajj without a permit. The General Directorate of Passports issued 17 administrative decisions for individuals involved in illegal transportation. These include a 15-day prison sentence for each transporter and a SAR 10,000 fine multiplied by the number of violators transported. Violators also face public exposure, deportation from the Kingdom if residents, and a ban on re-entry for a period of time determined by the regulations. The authorities ordered the confiscation of the vehicles used in transporting the violators. The Ministry of Interior has urged all citizens and residents to strictly comply with the Hajj regulations to ensure pilgrims feel safe, comfortable, and at peace when performing Hajj rituals. Source: Saudi Press Age ncy