The National Anti-Corruption Commission (Nazaha) has asked the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance to conduct an investigation into the alleged financial and administrative irregularities in some Alkhobar mosques.

The commission found alleged illegal practices in maintenance and cleaning contracts in some mosques of the city.

The anti-corruption agency also demanded the ministry to take steps to return the money paid for unfulfilled services and take appropriate steps against those who are responsible for the gross negligence in the cleaning and maintenance of the houses of worship, which are used by thousands of people.

Nazaha spokesman said the department took immediate steps to observe the situation in Alkhobar mosques after receiving a complaint from a citizen accusing a cleaning company, which is responsible to clean 120 mosques in the city, of neglecting its contracted work.

The Nazaha said in the statement that it sent one of its officials to investigate the complaint and also check the terms of the cleaning contract.

The official confirmed the charges about the poor cleaning level of mosques’ toilets and lack of cleaning equipment and staff . The maintenance of air conditioners and other electrical appliances were also neglected, the report said.

The inspecting official also did not find any imams or muezzins in some mosques, the commission said.

The ministry has allocated SR 253 million to construct new mosques and clean and maintain the existing mosques.