Several worshippers that night reported to police that cash was among the items stolen from their vehicles.

Police investigators arrived at the scene, which included forensic experts, and collected evidence from around the vehicles, including fingerprints left by the suspects, police said.

“The perpetrators apparently took advantage of the quiet and empty roads during the prayer, broke into these vehicles and stole some valuable items from them,” said a police officer involved in the case.

“Stolen items included electronic devices and cell phones. The suspects also appear to have fled the area through the nearby alleys.”

A number of local residents pointed out that the thieves were probably attracted to the location due to a lack of proper lighting in the area.

“I hope that the Jeddah municipality will look into fixing some of these broken light poles in the district, at least the ones near the mosques,” said one 25-year-old resident who chose not to be named.

“This could act as deterrent to those who might otherwise take advantage of the situation and break into parked vehicles.”