Sharjah authorities have successfully raided a residential property operating as a fake Zamzam water factory, leading to the arrest of the individual behind the illicit operation. The accused was apprehended while bottling ordinary water and fraudulently marketing it as the sacred Zamzam water.
According to officials, the accused was filling attractive bottles with regular water and labeling them as Zamzam water, thereby misleading consumers with false claims about its authenticity.
During the operation, authorities confiscated bottles bearing Zamzam labels, cartons, and other evidence indicative of fraudulent activity. Investigations further revealed that the individual was also exploiting the name of a licensed water trading company to conduct financial fraud.
Following the successful operation, the implicated company’s license was revoked, and the case has been referred to Sharjah Police for further legal proceedings.
Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution and refrain from purchasing unlicensed products, especially those promoted on social media. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities by contacting the municipality’s call center at 993.
In a related development, Saudi Arabia has re-emphasized its call for strict adherence to Hajj regulations, stressing the critical importance of possessing a valid permit to participate in the annual pilgrimage.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior reiterated that individuals found performing Hajj without a valid permit will face immediate deportation and a 10-year entry ban into the Kingdom. Officials underscored that possession of a permit is a mandatory requirement for participation in the pilgrimage, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
The ministry appealed to all residents to strictly comply with Hajj rules and guidelines, noting that these measures are implemented to safeguard the well-being of pilgrims and ensure the smooth conduct of the sacred rituals.
Authorities also encouraged the public to report any violations by dialing 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, or 999 in other areas of the Kingdom.
Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary on Tuesday reaffirmed the Kingdom’s full commitment to serving pilgrims through an integrated system, in line with the leadership’s directives and Vision 2030 goals. He emphasized that the “No Hajj Without a Permit” campaign is a central component in organizing the pilgrimage and enhancing public awareness.
