JEDDAH: The Ministry of Haj and Makkah governor’s office have launched a campaign to warn people that they would not be allowed to enter Makkah without a permit.

Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, chairman of the Supreme Haj Committee, said city officials have turned away about 160,000 people who did not have permits. Only people living in the holy city and those with permits can enter, he said.

Prince Khaled said the government wants to ensure that pilgrims have a safe and secure Haj and highlighted statements recently made on the matter by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif, deputy premier and interior minister.

“We will not allow disruption of this great religious ritual or any breach of security. We hope everyone will comply with regulations,” he said at a meeting here to launch the awareness campaign.

Hesham Faleh, adviser to Prince Khaled, said those failing to comply would be punished. He said citizens and expatriates should know the rules and not get involved in illegal activity such as transporting illegal pilgrims or sleeping on the streets.

He said the government launches awareness campaigns before the Haj season every year to educate people about the rules. If people comply, the government can provide better services for pilgrims, he said.