In a sweeping anti-corruption operation, Saudi Arabia’s Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) arrested 30 government employees accused of facilitating illegal Hajj pilgrimages by allowing pilgrims without valid permits to bypass security checkpoints.
Details of the Arrests
In coordination with the Ministry of Interior, Nazaha detained 26 officials from the Interior Ministry, two from the Defense Ministry, and one each from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Nazaha itself.
Related Corruption Cases Uncovered
Nazaha also revealed several parallel investigations, including:
- A former university staff member accused of embezzling SAR 100,800.
- A passports officer allegedly accepting bribes to extend temporary visas.
- A mayoralty employee accused of canceling municipal violations in exchange for payments.
Other offenses involved bribery to overlook safety breaches, unauthorized property development facilitation, selling court updates for money, misuse of impounded license plates, and the sale of customer data from the National Water Company.
Nazaha's Firm Stance on Corruption
Nazaha reiterated that it will pursue those exploiting public office—even after leaving—"without leniency."
Why This Matters
This crackdown serves as a strong signal about the Kingdom’s commitment to integrity in public service, especially during sensitive times like Hajj. It also demonstrates Nazaha’s expanding vigilance across various government sectors and functions.
Related Coverage
For insight into other major corruption investigations involving medical and security officials, see how Nazaha continues to expand its anti-graft efforts. (Nazaha Exposes 18 High-Profile Corruption Cases)
To understand how enforcing transparency in Hajj logistics ties into broader governance reforms, explore our coverage on pilgrimage-related system upgrades and oversight. (Hajj and Umrah Enforcement & Oversight Updates)
