RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Immigration Office at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali has suspended the departure of 13 Indonesian citizens suspected of attempting to undertake a non‑procedural Hajj pilgrimage via Malaysia. Officials detained the group of prospective pilgrims as they were about to depart from Ngurah Rai Airport.

Ngurah Rai Immigration Office Head Bugie Kurniawan said officers initially became suspicious of seven passengers who could not explain the purpose of their trip or present valid exit visas. Further inspection identified six more passengers in the group, bringing the total to 13.

“Based on the results of further inspection, the passengers gave inconsistent statements to immigration officers regarding the purpose of their departure. Suspicions of an unauthorized Hajj grew stronger after officers discovered a WhatsApp group named ‘Hebat Haji 2026,’” Bugie said in an official statement on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

He added that officers found indications the group intended to travel to Dubai to undertake an illegal Hajj. Conversations also revealed instructions for family members not to escort the group to the airport to conceal their true purpose.

“The departure of all group members has been postponed, and surveillance of potential illegal Hajj departures continues to be tightened. We ensure that all Indonesians comply with official Hajj procedures in accordance with regulations,” Bugie said.

He urged the public to use official channels for the pilgrimage to ensure safety, comfort, and legal protection. According to him, this measure also aligns with the directive from Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko, under the spirit of “Immigration for the People.” (Gusti Panji)