The Public Prosecutor's Office is continuing its investigation into the unauthorized Hajj trips undertaken by Jordanian pilgrims this year, which resulted in the deaths of 99 pilgrims. The number of suspects in the case has risen to 54, with 27 currently detained in correctional and rehabilitation centers.

On Tuesday, the Public Prosecutor announced that 27 suspects have been banned from traveling and 35 witnesses have been interviewed.

Three companies have been closed in accordance with the Anti-Human Trafficking Law, and the assets and criminal proceeds from these activities have been seized.

Investigations are ongoing, with several companies still under scrutiny. The office is intensifying efforts to gather evidence, ensure justice, restore rights to victims, and prevent future occurrences of such incidents, which have resulted in the loss of Jordanian lives and involved deception and exploitation.

Last week, the Public Prosecutor revealed the initial findings of the investigation, charging 28 suspects with human trafficking under Article 9/C/1, 2, and 8 of the Anti-Human Trafficking Law, and fraud under Article 417 of the Penal Code.

The specialized prosecutor's office is continuing its investigative procedures by interviewing victims, the families of the deceased, and relevant officials.

They are also coordinating with the Cybercrime Unit to track and analyze testimonies and videos related to the unauthorized Hajj trips circulating on social media platforms.

Investigations have uncovered that certain individuals, including owners of travel companies and Hajj and Umrah service providers, were involved in recruiting, transporting, and accommodating many Jordanians to visit Mecca during the Hajj season without the necessary permits.

These trips took place outside the official Jordanian delegation starting in early May 2024, a month before the Hajj season, using visit permits that did not authorize Hajj. These companies and individuals knowingly facilitated these unauthorized Hajj trips in exchange for monetary compensation.