Friday March 24, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - The Somali Attorney General's Office is investigating allegations of fraudulent activity by individuals and companies vying to offer Hajj services to the Somali public. The investigation centers on accusations of falsifying documents to participate in the bidding process.
In a press release, the Attorney General's Office instructed all relevant agencies to submit any information related to the investigation promptly. The office has also issued a stern warning to anyone attempting to forge documents, stating that anyone caught committing fraud will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The Attorney General has urged government officials to act immediately and report any suspected instances of fraud related to forgery. Citizens have also been asked to report any crimes by dialling 4949.
This investigation comes as the Somali government aims to improve the Hajj experience for its citizens. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Barre
expressed frustration at the high cost of Hajj for Somali pilgrims compared to neighbouring East African countries. While neighbouring countries charge $1,600 for Hajj, Somali pilgrims are charged between $5,500 and $6,000. In response, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced new criteria for companies wishing to compete to provide Hajj services, with the government pledging to manage and monitor such companies transparently.