Arafat, Outskirts of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, Dhu-Al-Hijjah 9, 1438 H., Aug 31, 2017, SPA -- The General Directorate of Passports (GDP) explained that until Thursday as many as 90 administrative decisions have been issued against citizens and residents, as well, who have transported pilgrims without Hajj permits. Penalties varied between fines, prison sentences, deportation of offenders, defamation and demand of confiscation of means of transport used to transport pilgrims, the immigration authority added. The total number of violating carriers through the centers of entrances into Makkah, at Shemeissi, Tanneim, Bahitah and Kar, stood at 69 citizens and 22 residents, who transported 498 pilgrims without permits, while the total financial fines issued against violators worth SR 5,245,000. According to the GDP, the regular punishment imposed on anyone who transports pilgrims without regular Hajj permit, is SR 50,000 for each pilgrim transported, in addition to imprisonment for up to 6 months, as well as deportation, provided that the carrier is an expatriate, following execution of the penalty. He will also be banned from entry into the Kingdom, in accordance with a prescribed period, with and an expropriation claim of used vehicle, furthermore. -- SPA 18:05 LOCAL TIME 15:05 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w478857