17 Algerian pilgrims died in Saudi Arabia

A total of 17 Algerians were confirmed dead during this year’s Muslim pilgrimage. Medical reports say their death was natural, according to Civil Protection Commander.

• “The death toll has risen to 17 after 3 other Algerian pilgrims had died Monday morning and Sunday,” Belkacem Ketroussi told Echorouk Monday.
• Ketroussi, who has accompanied the Algerian pilgrims, said the Civil Protection found 3,865 hadjis who have been reported missing in Mecca, Mina, Mount Arafat and Medina in Saudi Arabia since the beginning of the pilgrimage season.
• “The death toll is lower compared to 2007 Hadj season where 42 Algerian pilgrims died,” he added.
• Some 26,000 Algerian pilgrims take part this year in the sacred religious journey of Hadj.
• Hundreds of thousands of hadjis are staying in Saudi Arabia to pay visits to the tomb of Muslim Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) in Medina.
• Three million pilgrims performed the hadj this year.
• Muslims must perform the Hadj at least once in their lifetime if they are capable and eligible as seen by Islam. It symbolizes their union and their submission to Allah.