RIYADH – Saudi Arabia has started using advanced drone technology to monitor and control ‘unauthorized’ pilgrims in a groundbreaking move to counter Hajj without proper permit this year.
The drones are now conducting round-the-clock surveillance within the holy boundaries of Makkah which resulted in the daily arrest of hundreds of individuals attempting to perform Hajj without proper permits.
The authorities said that the high-tech system proved highly effective in identifying and intercepting unauthorized pilgrims.
The drones are not only monitoring the streets of Makkah but also keeping a close watch over mountainous routes commonly used for illegal entry into the holy city.
In another significant development, Saudi authorities arrested four Indonesian nationals in Makkah for selling fake Hajj permits.
During further investigation, 14 more individuals were taken into custody from their residence—none of whom possessed valid Hajj permits.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah stated, “All these measures are being taken to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims. Unauthorized individuals put not only their own lives at risk but also endanger others,”.
Experts say the use of drone technology is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to enhance Hajj management and security.
Compared to previous years, a noticeable decline in the number of illegal pilgrims has been observed this year, a success partly attributed to the deployment of this advanced surveillance system.
Officials have urged the public to follow only legal procedures for undertaking the sacred journey of Hajj and to refrain from using any unlawful means.
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