Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has called the Umrah pilgrims from the Hijra Umrah Group who are stranded in Saudi Arabia. A person who went on behalf of that Umrah group said on social media that he is a person who came for Umrah on behalf of that group. He also said that about 25 people came with him in this group and are in Makkah.
“There are even very young children. Our departure from the Maldives was very difficult. We were divided into three groups and sent to Makkah on three flights after being pushed around. While we were in Makkah, one night I was even thrown out of the hotel.” The person said that now all the Umrah rituals are completed and they are unable to return to the Maldives. “They don’t give a return ticket to anyone, and they haven’t even bought tickets yet. There are people who need to go back to work as their leave has ended, and there are children who can’t go to school as it has reopened.” The Minister said that efforts are being made to assist the stranded Umrah pilgrims through the Maldives Hajj Corporation currently in Makkah. “I have given instructions to the MD of Hajj Corporation,” the Minister said.
The Minister said that they will not stay without helping any Maldivian citizen in difficulty, and that the President always instructs to work closely with the people. “I have called and spoken to the Umrah pilgrims who are in a difficult situation in Makkah tonight and checked on their current situation. Insha Allah, we are working to solve the difficulties they are facing,” the Minister said. The Minister has also assured that the case of the Hijra Group’s leaders who were negligent towards the Umrah pilgrims will be investigated and action will be taken.
