Qassim police apprehended five fake Haj companies for operating without a license and taking large sums of money from prospective local pilgrims.

Company owners were formally charged with violating Haj regulations.

“We nabbed these men after constant monitoring by intelligence teams at different locations,” said Capt. Badr Al-Suhaibani, Qassim police media spokesman.

He explained that the men, all in their 30s and 40s, operated undercover in houses, private apartments and unauthorized offices.

He added that the men had in their possession several publications, bonds, travel tickets and, in some cases, cash amounting to more than SR8,000.

“They have been referred to the Buraidah Police station for eventual referral to the Bureau of Investigation and Public Prosecution for further legal action,” Al-Suhaibani said.

He stressed that the Qassim police has warned members of the public against falling victim to fraudsters who exploit the Haj season by promoting fake campaigns, which can drag pilgrims into endless nightmares or have them miss the Haj altogether.

He stressed the importance of applying for the pilgrimage through the Haj ministry’s portal, which has a list of licensed companies offering Haj services.

Qassim police confirmed in a statement that security agencies are continuing to monitor the owners of illegal campaigns and ensured that strict penalties await them.

The police also called on citizens and residents to cooperate and report companies operating without a license. Pilgrims were also urged to obtain Haj permits for entry to Makkah and the holy sites.