Hemaya Universal, a consumer protection company that works in conjunction with Jeddah municipality to detect commercial fraud is all set to launch its campaign during the Haj season.Ministry of Commerce and Industry extends full cooperation to the company in its efforts to curb trading of fake goods. The campaign comes in the wake of reports that several expatriates and pilgrims engage in trading in fake goods during the season to make a quick buck. “Our campaign will include all the areas around the Grand Mosque in Makkah, the Prophet's Mosque in Madina and other holy sites of Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah,” said Ahmad Al-Zebedi, Executive Manager of Hemaya Universal Company. “Some pilgrims have no idea about the fake products and cannot distinguish between the real and fake products carrying branded names,” said Al-Zebedi. The fake products generally include electronic appliances, cotton clothes, shoes, watches and bed covers, said Saiyed Mahmoud Al-Saiyed, lecturer and trainer in Hemaya Universal Company, warning the pilgrims against falling prey to the machinations of the unscrupulous elements. The company's campaign includes distribution of warning brochures, added Al-Zebedi. Several pilgrims have been noticed to stay on beyond the Haj and trade here in goods which they bring from their countries, said Al-Saiyed. Every year Makkah police take steps to curb this tendency, said Major Abdulmohsen Al-Maiman, spokesman of Makkah Police. “These pilgrims are committing two violations: Staying in the Kingdom even after the expiry of their visas and doing unauthorized business, added Al-Maiman. He warned the pilgrims against engaging in this business. If caught, he said, the pilgrims would be sent to deportation centers. These people may have to shell out a fine too, he said. – SG __
