Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The State Security Service (SSS) of Uzbekistan, in cooperation with internal affairs authorities, has conducted a series of operations to expose the illegal activities of travel companies and agents offering unauthorized pilgrimage services for Hajj and Umrah, according to an official press release.

In the capital, representatives of a travel agency demanded US$7,000 each from three individuals to organize Hajj trips using work visas and US$5,000 from another individual for a trip under a tourist visa. The total sum solicited reached US$26,000, with US$20,000 paid in advance. The suspects were caught red-handed.

In the city of Margilan, Fergana region, an employee of a tour company was detained while receiving US$2,400. He had promised to organize Umrah for two people and Hajj for another three, asking for a total of US$15,000.

In Namangan, a 25-year-old man was arrested for posting false advertisements on social media about organizing Hajj trips. Through fraudulent means, he collected US$4,900 from each of three individuals — totaling US$14,700.

In Chust district, the head of an unlicensed tour company demanded US$1,350 each from three individuals. He was detained while receiving a US$4,000 payment.

Additionally, in Tashkent, with the assistance of the Department for Combating Economic Crimes, a 26-year-old man was caught after promising to send five people to Saudi Arabia on pilgrimage visas in exchange for US$27,000. He was arrested while receiving a US$13,500 down payment.

Criminal cases have been initiated under the relevant articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and investigative actions are ongoing.

The State Security Service strongly advises citizens to verify whether a travel agency holds a valid license before signing any contracts for Hajj or Umrah services. Such licenses are issued solely by the Committee for Religious Affairs.

According to the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, the first group of pilgrims departed for Saudi Arabia from Tashkent Airport on 13 May. Flights to Medina will operate daily through 28 May from nine cities across the country: Tashkent, Samarkand, Namangan, Karshi, Termez, Bukhara, Navoi, Urgench, and Nukus.