The new ‘Mecca Ponzi’ scheme targeting devout pilgrims

The «too good to be true» scam hitting 2026 pilgrims / Photo: Wikipedia.org, photo editor: Serikzhan Kovlanbayev

An Astana resident allegedly promised 13 people a Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca but instead collected money under false pretenses, according to Polisia.kz.

Authorities said the suspect, who worked for a travel company, claimed he would arrange visas and airline tickets. However, he never organized the trip.

Read also: A pilgrimage on wheels: Kazakh man cycles 8,000 km to Medina.

Police have launched a pretrial investigation and detained the suspect, a 27-year-old travel company employee.

«Currently, 13 incidents have been identified. The total financial damage amounts to 2,200,000 tenge [$4,600],» police said in a statement.

More victims possible

Law enforcement officials said the number of victims could increase as the investigation continues. Authorities are also working to determine whether the suspect was involved in similar crimes.

Police urge caution when booking travel

Police are urging the public to verify a company’s license, review contract terms carefully, and confirm payment documentation when booking pilgrimage or tourism services.