Pilgrims lose thousands on cancelled Mecca trips
Worshippers fear they will lose thousands of pounds after their Hajj pilgrimages to Mecca were cancelled.
Pilgrims, who each bought packages through travel agent Taha Travel, in Small Heath, Birmingham, said refunds were not received and the shop was closed.
One woman took 17 years to save for her family’s summer trip to Saudi Arabia.
Jameil Kendawi, of Taha Travel, said he was trying to pay back funds.
Every year millions of Muslims make the journey to Mecca.
An investigation by BBC Midlands Today found at least 11 people paid for packages for their families, which were being sold by Taha Travel for up to £4,000 each.
‘Disastrous news’
It is understood the firm was not Atol protected.
Mohammad Asif Qureshi, from Birmingham, said his family’s bags were packed until they received the “disastrous” news they were unable to go on their trip.
“My wife is really depressed. It took her about 17 years she was saving,” he said