Ahmad Al-Husaini

Okaz/Saudi Gazette

 

MAKKAH – Long neglected by security bodies, Al-Shubah neighborhood has become a ghetto, a safe haven for criminals and drug addicts. The neighborhood is one of Makkah’s oldest and is characterized by rundown houses, narrow alleys, steep hills and complete darkness at night.



It is inhabited by large numbers of expatriate workers of varying nationalities and a few citizens. Adel Al-Etaibi, a citizen who lives in the neighborhood, questioned why security bodies had yet to deal with the illegalities and the violators in the area.



He said that the neighborhood lacks and suffers from uncollected garbage, stray cats and dogs and dilapidated homes that are at risk of collapse.



“These houses have become a refuge for criminals, drug addicts, all of who are a threat to women and children. I find it difficult to leave my wife and children alone in the house for long periods of time,” he said.



Citizen and local resident Mohammad Al-Hamad said that in addition to the bad condition of the neighborhoods, illegals have sought refuge in the rough terrain of Al-Sayedah Mountain.



“A large number of illegals took refuge in the neighborhood during the correction campaign and security bodies find it difficult to monitor the Al-Sayedah Mountain area due to its rugged nature.



“In recent years, expatriate workers account for around 80 percent of residents,” he said.



A source at the Makkah Passport Department confirmed the dangers many law-breaking residents pose to the general safety of the public and society. He said Passport Department conducts regular inspections in cooperation with other security bodies and that the department receives complaints from the public on its toll free number.