In a decisive move prompted by the tragic deaths of over 1,100 pilgrims during this year’s hajj, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has ordered strict measures against 16 tourism companies accused of facilitating illegal pilgrimages to Mecca. This crackdown follows reports attributing many of the fatalities to severe heat conditions in Saudi Arabia, where temperatures soared under the scorching summer sun.
Among the deceased, a significant number were Egyptian nationals, with 630 unregistered pilgrims reportedly among the casualties. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s directive to establish a crisis management team underscores the seriousness of the situation, tasked specifically with investigating the deaths of Egyptian pilgrims.
“The prime minister’s order includes the revocation of licences from these companies, the referral of their managers to the public prosecutor, and the imposition of fines to support the families of the deceased pilgrims,” stated an official cabinet release.
The investigation revealed that some companies had arranged hajj journeys using personal visit visas, which prohibited holders from entering Mecca through official channels. This misuse left pilgrims vulnerable to inadequate services and exhausting conditions exacerbated by the extreme heat.
Despite the challenges, Saudi officials defended their management of the hajj, citing the allocation of permits through a quota system and emphasizing the safety risks associated with unauthorized pilgrimages. The pilgrimage, a cornerstone of Islamic faith, drew approximately 1.8 million participants this year, with 1.6 million traveling from abroad.
As investigations continue and families mourn their losses, the Egyptian government’s actions aim to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies during this sacred pilgrimage.
