HOLY SITES ? Authorities have turned away 16,990 pilgrims without Haj permits from different entry points to Makkah, said Col. Ayed Al-Luqmani, Assistant Chief of Passports for Haj and Umrah Affairs. At least 181 drivers were arrested for smuggling pilgrims and their vehicles were confiscated, he said, and ?85 forgers of Haj permits were also arrested?. Over 4,500 vehicles without Haj vehicle entry permits transporting 31,000 pilgrims were prevented from entering Makkah, he added. ? ?Okaz/SG __
