The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has challenged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) not loose guard of any attempt by intending pilgrims to smuggle prohibited items to Saudi Arabia.
Besides the Hajj commission insisted the enforcement agencies at the air border terminals should arrest pilgrims in possession of unwanted items or substance.
Chairman of the Commission Mal. Ahmad Jalal Arabi gave the instruction at the pick of pilgrims outbound operation for 2024 hajj believed apprehending such unwholesome attempt will safe country needless embarrassment and unnecessary delays during screening in both countries.
A statement by Fatima Sanda Usara,
Assistant Director, Public Affairs, on Thursday, Mal. Arabi similarly warned intending pilgrims to beware of being used as conduit for any illicit trade without their knowledge.
To avoid falling prey of the evil mission, the NAHCON boss cautioned the intending pilgrims to be extra vigilant over their bags at the airports against, implant of prohibited items to their luggage unawares.
He reminded Nigerian contingents that as a nation deeply rooted in religious and cultural heritage, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia holds strict laws against drug trafficking, a penalty for which is death sentence.
“Pilgrims are urged to uphold their honour and dignity and that of the country, as any individual caught smuggling prohibited items not only brings shame upon themselves but also tarnishes the reputation of their nation.
“Intending pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj are cautioned to refrain from travelling with illicit drugs, kola nuts, cigarettes etc., into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. NAHCON wishes to remind the pilgrims that the purpose of their trip to Saudi Arabia is for worship, therefore they should not be distracted by acts that would violate sanctity of their Hajj.
“Hajj period is a time for spiritual reflection and prayers that should be approached with reverence and respect for the laws and customs of the host country.
“We advises State Pilgrims Boards to collaborate fully with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other related agencies in ensuring that persons planning to smuggle items prohibited in Saudi Arabia are apprehended to avoid embarrassment to the country”. Mal. Arabi noted.