JEDDAH: Drivers caught transporting pilgrims without Haj permits will be severely penalized, the Ministry of Interior warned on Thursday. The directive follows a royal decree in this regard.

“Anyone caught transporting pilgrims not carrying Haj permits will be detained for 15 days and fined SR10,000 for every such pilgrim being transported. Their vehicles will also be impounded, whether owned by the carrier, accomplice or shareholder,” the ministry said in a statement.

“If the violation is repeated for a second time, the violator will be detained for two months and fined SR25,000 and a third violation will mean prison term of six months and fine of SR50,000 for every pilgrim being transported without Haj permit,” the ministry said.

“If the violator is a foreigner, he will be deported and banned from entering the Kingdom for a period stipulated by the law,” it said.

The decision is place for the Haj season, the statement by the ministry added.