NAJRAN: The Najran branch of Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance issued a circular banning imams from collecting donations during Ramadan and added that donors should deposit money with licensed charities only.

The imams cannot collect money even for iftar meals or eatables during the month, local media reported, citing the ministry’s circular.

According to the circular, those who want to provide for Ramadan meals will have to get permission from the province and the meals should be bought from licensed restaurants.

Meals shouldn’t be provided in tents near housing complexes and/or mosques and the use of inflammable material should be avoided. Organizers should also coordinate with Civil Defense.