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POLICE have launched an investigation into allegations that 47 elderly pilgrims were victims of a fraudulent Hajj package, following claims that they were detained and coerced into crossing hazardous terrain without proper documentation in Saudi Arabia.
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) confirmed receiving three reports from family members of the affected pilgrims, with two lodged in Mantin, Negeri Sembilan, and one in Ayer Hitam, Johor.
“This matter is being reviewed seriously by the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (JSJK) and the investigation will cover multiple elements. At this stage, it is too early to confirm whether cross-border fraud is involved,” said Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali, acting director of JSJK, in a statement on Sunday.
He added that investigators are gathering evidence and witness statements, and probing whether a syndicate may have been operating in collaboration with certain agents.
“Following the three reports, JSJK has opened an investigation paper under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, allowing the police to collect further statements and evidence,” he said.
Authorities are currently awaiting the return of the victims to Malaysia to facilitate interviews and further action.
“The investigation is still at an early stage to determine the individuals or local agencies that may have acted as intermediaries or facilitators in this unauthorised Hajj arrangement,” Muhammed Hasbullah noted.
He confirmed that JSJK would work in coordination with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH), and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) to blacklist any companies found to be offering unapproved Hajj packages.
“This step is essential in protecting the public from falling prey to scams,” he said, while also urging the public to verify offers with authorised agencies before making any commitments related to Hajj.
“JSJK greatly appreciates media support in informing the public that only individuals with valid Hajj visas are allowed by Saudi authorities to perform the pilgrimage,” he added. “We are committed to taking firm action against any parties who deceive pilgrims.”
Media reports on Saturday revealed that the group of elderly Malaysian pilgrims was misled by a local agent allegedly connected to a well-known religious figure. Upon arriving in Jeddah on 9 May, they were forced to walk dangerous routes in an attempt to reach Makkah without valid Hajj visas, as Saudi authorities intensified checks and restrictions on unauthorised pilgrims.
Sharifah Azzahra, whose elderly parents and aunt were among the victims, said the group had been lured by the agent’s promises before facing the harrowing ordeal in the Kingdom. - June 15, 2025