A civil society organisation, Independent Hajj Reporters, has urged state governments to strengthen and harmonise security arrangements for intending pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj operations.
The group’s National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, who signed the statement made available to journalists on Monday, said the appeal had become necessary as pre-airlift activities commence across the country.
According to him, there is an urgent need for proactive measures to forestall potential security threats during the period.
He emphasised the importance of closely monitoring the movement of pilgrims from their homes to orientation centres, transit camps and final departure points, noting that many intending pilgrims often travel across state lines for their flights.
The organisation called on state governments to collaborate with relevant security agencies in setting up coordinated security teams to safeguard pilgrims throughout the pre-Hajj period.
It also urged state Muslim pilgrims’ welfare boards to intensify sensitisation efforts, advising pilgrims to remain vigilant, adhere strictly to guidelines issued by Saudi authorities, and avoid spreading or acting on unverified security information.
Citing past incidents, the group recalled the arrest of suspected bandits at Hajj camps during the 2025 pilgrimage, warning that such occurrences must be prevented through improved vigilance and coordination.
It further cautioned pilgrims against travelling in large groups accompanied by non-travelling family members, noting that such practices could increase exposure to security risks.
