Saudi Gazette report MAKKAH — Illegal residents have created a black market for selling bottled Zamzam water at the Zamzam plant in Makkah's Kudai District. The gangs operating outside the plant have become a nuisance for the citizens, residents and pilgrims alike, Al-Madinah newspaper reported. Several people approached by the newspaper said the black market was thriving due to the fact that many people are averse to standing in the queue awaiting their turn to get coupons to buy the sacred water. Mohammad Shah and Kareem Rahman, members of the gang selling Zamzam outside the plant, said they began selling Zamzam bottles ever since the plant was opened. They buy bottled Zamzam and resell it for a small profit to those who do not wish to stand in long queues. They said that security bodies do not monitor the area, except during Ramadan. Naser and Khalid Ismail said they assist buyers who wish to buy quantities larger than what is designated for individuals. They buy Zamzam in their names, and resell to such buyers for a fee. They said that these days, and during Ramadan, their income ranges between SR500 and SR700 a day. They said that the campaigns conducted by the Passports Department and the police have limited their activities. But they said they were not bothered as they knew how to deal with the officials. Abdullah Jalali and Khalid Baji said that they help buyers in pushing their carts and carry Zamzam bottles to their cars. Several citizens said that the services of these illegal workers are required due to the haphazard management of the plant. They said that long lines form because there are not enough employees at the plant to sell Zamzam, and that more selling points should be made available, especially during Ramadan. Dr. Mohammad Al-Futawi, manager of the environment health department at Makkah Municipality, said that the characteristics of Zamzam may change when subjected to direct sun light. Spokesman of Makkah Passports Department Lt. Col. Mohammad Al-Hussain said his department conducts intensive campaigns at all locations where illegal residents normally gather. Some campaigns, such as the one at the Zamzam plant, are conducted jointly with other government bodies, he said.
