- Two men, aged 22 and 23, were arrested in Birmingham on September 29 on suspicion of fraud by false representation and money laundering.
- Around a dozen victims paid for Hajj visas, travel and accommodation that were never arranged, losing about £100,000 in total.
- Police searched three addresses across the city, and the case is being led by the Economic Crime Unit with Birmingham City Council’s Trading Standards team.
West Midlands Police have arrested two men in Birmingham over a Hajj scam that cost victims about £100,000. Officers carried out search warrants at three addresses across the city on September 29.
How the Hajj Scam Worked
Victims were told that a fee would cover their visa, travel and accommodation for the Hajj pilgrimage, an important part of the Muslim faith. None of those arrangements were ever made.
Police believe around a dozen people were affected. Most are elderly and live in the Birmingham area. Between them, they lost about £100,000.
Two Men Arrested in Birmingham
Officers searched three addresses and arrested two suspects, aged 22 and 23. Both were held on suspicion of fraud by false representation and money laundering. They remain in custody for questioning.
A police spokesperson said the arrests were part of “a major investigation into a £100,000 fraud” targeting people planning pilgrimage trips.
Who Is Investigating
The Economic Crime Unit is leading the case. The unit handles fraud and complex financial investigations across the West Midlands. Officers are working with the Trading Standards team at Birmingham City Council.


