SSS Arrests Travel Firm Employees for Hajj Scam
The State Security Service in Uzbekistan has taken action against individuals in Tashkent and Ferghana who were attempting to deceive people by promising to send them on the Haj pilgrimage in exchange for money. Several individuals have been detained in connection with these fraudulent activities.
According to reports, employees of the State Security Service, along with cooperation from the Prosecutor General’s Office and internal affairs bodies, conducted prompt actions to apprehend those involved. In Tashkent, two employees of a travel company in the Yakkasaray district were caught red-handed while trying to extort money from a local citizen in exchange for arranging visa documents for his parents’ Hajj trip. Similar incidents took place in other districts of Tashkent and Fergana, with individuals demanding large sums of money for Hajj pilgrimage arrangements.
Criminal cases have been initiated against the individuals involved, and investigations are currently underway. It is important to note that in Uzbekistan, the organization of Hajj events for citizens is solely the responsibility of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, in accordance with agreements between the Committee on Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has strict regulations regarding the Hajj pilgrimage, including the requirement of a specific “Hajj” visa for foreign citizens. Violators of these regulations can face deportation, entry bans, and fines. It is important for individuals to be cautious and verify the legitimacy of Hajj pilgrimage arrangements to avoid falling victim to fraud schemes.
