Jigawa Pilgrims Fall Victim to Theft in Saudi Arabia During 2026 Hajj
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
At least three pilgrims from Jigawa State participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia have fallen victim to separate theft incidents involving cash and personal valuables.
Daily Trust report indicates that the cases, which occurred in Makkah and Madinah, involved suspected pickpocketing and theft by unidentified individuals, leaving the affected pilgrims stranded and distressed.
In one of the incidents, a pilgrim, identified as Baba Katanga from Katanga village in Kiyawa Local Government Area, reported losing 400 US dollars after boarding a taxi from Masjid al-Haram to his hotel, Mahabbat Al Akhawin Hotel, in Makkah.
He said the incident occurred while he was attempting to check his Nusuk card inside the vehicle.
“I felt shocked when I later discovered that my 400 dollars was missing. I had planned to use that money throughout my stay,” he said.
In a separate incident, another pilgrim from Jahun Local Government Area, whose identity was not disclosed, reportedly lost all his foreign currency to a suspected taxi driver.
Similarly, a female pilgrim, popularly known as Hajiya, also lost a handbag containing two mobile phones and cash meant for her upkeep during the pilgrimage.
The incident reportedly occurred at Miqat in Madinah, where pilgrims traditionally prepare for the state of Ihram before proceeding to Makkah for Umrah.
Sources indicated that the woman briefly left her belongings unattended and later discovered that the bag had been stolen.
The incidents have generated concern among Jigawa pilgrims, prompting some fellow pilgrims to provide financial assistance to the affected individuals.
Reacting to the development, the Director-General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Ahmad Umar Labbo, expressed sympathy and assured that the board would support the victims.
He reiterated that the board had consistently advised pilgrims before departure to remain vigilant, particularly in crowded areas, and to safeguard their money and valuables.
Labbo urged pilgrims to avoid entrusting personal belongings to strangers or leaving them unattended during the Hajj exercise.
He also prayed for the safety and protection of all Jigawa pilgrims and urged continued caution throughout the spiritual journey.
