Saudi Arabia’s Royal Ground Forces will be providing security support to the country’s Interior Ministry during the massive congregation starting Friday on the occasion of Hajj.
They will help maintain order during the massive congregation of pilgrims, which begins tomorrow.
The military police assist the Internal Security Forces in managing the crowds, regulating the movement of pilgrims within the courtyards of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam’s holiest site, and monitoring the entry and exit points of the mosque.
A specialized support unit is participating in the removal of hazardous substances at land border crossings and the sacred sites where Hajj rituals are performed.
Saudi Arabia has mobilized various government agencies to ensure the security and safety of the estimated 2 million pilgrims expected to attend this year’s Hajj in and around the city of Mecca.
Saudi officials have emphasized that the security of the Hajj pilgrimage is a “red line” that cannot be crossed.
They have also banned any political slogans or protests during this religious gathering.
Authorities in Saudi Arabia have also stepped up their efforts to prevent unauthorized pilgrims from participating in the Hajj and reported catching thousands of foreign visitors who were attempting to perform the Hajj without having the required official permit.
The authorities have repeatedly emphasized that a regular visit visa does not entitle its holder to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. They have also warned against fraudsters who are promoting and selling bogus Hajj tour packages.
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Earlier this week, a security official reported that Saudi forces have apprehended 140 fake Hajj campaign operators and 64 transporters who were found to be violating Hajj regulations.
Furthermore, the Chief of Public Security and head of the Hajj Security Committee, Lt. Gen. Mohammed Al Bassami, stated that 97,664 unauthorized vehicles and 171,587 people who do not reside in Mecca have been turned away and denied access to the city.