Kola nut, which Saudi Arabia authorities has warned Hajj pilgrims of carrying into the Kingdom this year, has been found in the luggage of some pilgrims during check-in procedure in Tamale.
According to reports, the items were siezed at the Tamale International Airport on Sunday during weighing and departure formalities at the Hajj Village for the first flight.
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The seizure follows the Hajj Board warning pilgrims embarking on this year’s Hajj pilgrimage not to carry kola nut or risk being arrested or even killed by Saudi Arabia authorities if caught.
The Board received a circular from the Government of Saudi Arabia prohibiting pilgrims of carrying kola nut, locally referred to as “goro” in Hausa, into the Kingdom.
Adom News’ Illiasu Abdul Rauf who followed the story reported that, some pilgrims had their Kola nuts, painkillers and dry pepper seized by Customs authorities.
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Saudi authorities have warned to show no mercy to any pilgrim who smuggles in kola nut among other prohibited items in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom.
Based on this backdrop, Illiasu said the Hajj Committee in Ghana has beefed up security to ensure noone falls foul of the law.
Meanwhile, 435 pilgrims have been airlifted to the holy city of Mecca.