Nigerian Pilgrims Lose Cash, Phones To Suspected Thieves During Hajj

Atleast three pilgrims from Jigawa State performing the 2026 Hajj in Saudi Arabia have fallen victim to separate theft incidents, raising fresh concerns over the safety of worshippers around crowded holy sites and transport areas.

The incidents, which reportedly involved stolen dollars, mobile phones and personal belongings, left the affected pilgrims distressed as they struggled to continue their religious obligations without the money meant for their stay.

One of the victims, an elderly pilgrim identified as Baba Katanga from Kiyawa Local Government Area, reportedly lost 400 US dollars after boarding a taxi from Masjidil Haram to his hotel in Makkah.

According to the pilgrim, the money disappeared while he was checking his Nusuk card during the journey. He alleged that the taxi driver may have taken advantage of the distraction to steal the cash unnoticed.

“I only realised the money was missing after arriving at the hotel. That money was meant to cover my expenses throughout the pilgrimage, so the situation became very difficult for me,” he said.

In another case, a male pilgrim from Jahun Local Government Area was also said to have lost all the dollars he carried after entering a taxi. 

Details surrounding the incident remained unclear, but fellow pilgrims described the experience as devastating for the victim.

Similarly, a female pilgrim widely known among the delegation as Hajiya reportedly lost a handbag containing two mobile phones and cash intended for her upkeep during the Hajj exercise.

The incident occurred at Miqat in Madinah, a location where pilgrims usually prepare spiritually before proceeding to Makkah for Umrah rites.

Sources familiar with the development said the woman briefly stepped away from her bag for a short period, only to discover upon returning that it had vanished.

The separate incidents have generated sympathy among members of the Jigawa contingent, with several pilgrims reportedly contributing money to support the victims while awaiting assistance from officials.

Reacting to the development, the Director-General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Ahmad Umar Labbo, assured the affected pilgrims that the board would provide necessary support to reduce their hardship.

Labbo said officials had repeatedly warned pilgrims before departing Nigeria to remain alert and protect their valuables, especially in crowded environments often targeted by criminals.

“We have continued to advise pilgrims to be extremely careful with their belongings. 

"They should avoid leaving bags unattended or trusting strangers with money and valuables,” he said.

Furthermore, he urged Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia to remain security conscious throughout the Hajj period and prayed for the safety and successful completion of the pilgrimage for all participants.