The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in collaboration with the Indonesian National Police (Polri), has issued a formal response following the arrest of three Indonesian residents by Makkah authorities. The individuals were taken into custody for their alleged involvement in a fraudulent scheme involving the dissemination of fictitious and misleading Hajj service advertisements across various social media platforms.
To combat such practices, the government is intensifying its efforts to prevent and prosecute illegal Hajj activities. This initiative involves high-level coordination across multiple agencies, centered around the Illegal Hajj Prevention Task Force. This specialized unit brings together personnel from the National Police, the Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services, and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to monitor, prevent, and take firm action against the scams and unauthorized departures that typically surge ahead of the peak Hajj season in 1447 H/2026 M.
“Today, we are providing an update on our progress in handling illegal Hajj practices. Fraudulent activities through fake advertisements continue to persist, and addressing this requires a collective effort across institutions, including the full support of the National Police,” stated Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, following a coordination meeting with Deputy Police Chief Dedi Prasetyo at the National Police Headquarters on Thursday (30/4).
Dahnil confirmed that Saudi Arabian security forces recently apprehended three Indonesian nationals suspected of promoting illegal Hajj services. “Three Indonesian citizens were arrested in Saudi Arabia for Hajj-related fraud and the promotion of fake services. The government remains in constant communication and coordination with Saudi authorities regarding the legal proceedings and the provision of necessary assistance,” he explained.
He further emphasized that the government’s strategy is not limited to law enforcement; it also prioritizes preventative measures to ensure that the public does not fall victim to these predatory schemes.
Increased Police Presence in Saudi Arabia
As part of a broader strategy to improve Hajj management and security, the government has agreed to increase the involvement of the National Police in Hajj operations within Saudi Arabia.
“We have agreed to deploy additional police personnel to Saudi Arabia to bolster management, security, and the overall comfort of Indonesian pilgrims. Moving forward, the Amirul Hajj structure will also officially include representatives from the National Police,” Dahnil added.
During this year’s Hajj season, the Deputy Police Chief joined the Amirul Hajj delegation to oversee the safety and protection of pilgrims throughout the duration of the operational period.
Law Enforcement and Public Advisory
Deputy Police Chief Dedi Prasetyo reaffirmed that the National Police will continue to strengthen collaboration and information sharing regarding illegal Hajj cases, both domestically and with Saudi Arabian security counterparts.
“The Hajj Task Force is focused on both prevention and strict law enforcement. We have identified several repeat offenders and recidivists in these cases, and we will take decisive legal action against them,” Dedi asserted.
According to Dedi, there has been a significant trend in public reports regarding suspected Hajj fraud. While several cases have been resolved through mediation, others are currently moving through the legal system.
“Some cases can be settled through mediation, but if that fails, the legal process will proceed fully to ensure a deterrent effect,” he stated firmly.
The National Police continues to maintain intensive communication with the Saudi Arabian police to manage any legal issues involving Indonesian citizens during the Hajj season.
The government once again urges the public not to be enticed by non-procedural Hajj offers that frequently circulate on social media and digital platforms. Citizens are strongly advised to ensure that their visas and travel organizers comply with the official regulations set by both the Indonesian and Saudi Arabian governments to ensure a safe, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj pilgrimage.
Summary
Saudi Arabian authorities arrested three Indonesian citizens for promoting fraudulent Hajj services through fake social media advertisements. In response, the Indonesian government is strengthening its Illegal Hajj Prevention Task Force to monitor and prosecute unauthorized travel schemes. This inter-agency unit aims to prevent predatory practices and ensure the safety of pilgrims ahead of the upcoming Hajj season.
The government plans to deploy additional police personnel to Saudi Arabia to enhance the security and management of Indonesian pilgrims. Law enforcement agencies are taking decisive legal action against repeat offenders while providing legal assistance to those involved. The public is strongly advised to only use official Hajj channels and comply with government visa regulations to avoid scams.