The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says seven Nigerians have been arrested in Saudi Arabia.
They were apprehended for not being in possession of their NUSUK identity cards.
The news was disclosed in a circular directed to States Muslim Pilgrims’ and Welfare Boards (SMPWB’s) by NAHCON’s Coordinator in Makkah, Dr. Aliyu Tanko, dated June 6.
It said the pilgrims were arrested in front of their hotels and from two states.
The circular read, “NAHCON wishes to reiterate its advisory and appeal on the collection and use of Nusuk ID Cards by pilgrims on Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“The Commission warns that already, seven Nigerian pilgrims from two States were arrested in front of their hotels on the 5th and 6th of June, for not being in possession of their NUSUK ID cards.
“It is imperative to carry these cards at all times as they are the recognized means of identifying pilgrims and also having access to key areas during Hajj. Pilgrims with smartphones can download the NUSUK app from Playstore or iTunes stores, use their passport and visa numbers to activate and access digital copies of their NUSUK cards.
“Not having Hajj permits, habouring or aiding those without it attracts SR10,000 fine, 6 months’ imprisonment, deportation and banning from Saudi Arabia for 10 years.”
The NUSUK card was introduced by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to identify legal pilgrims partaking in the 2024 hajj pilgrimage.
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