Saudi authorities on Friday denied reports that a suspected suicide bomber had been apprehended at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, saying instead that security personnel had arrested a man accused of harassing passersby and causing fear and panic.
In a statement posted on X, security authorities in the holy city said the individual was detained after allegedly disturbing people in the area and spreading panic, adding that he was dealt with immediately.
“The security authorities confirm that there is no truth to the claims being circulated regarding the incident,” the statement said.
Authorities did not provide further details about the suspect, his identity or the circumstances surrounding the arrest.
Earlier, unverified claims circulating on social media alleged that a man wearing an explosive vest had approached the Holy Kaaba before being detained by security personnel.
Saudi authorities rejected those claims and said the incident did not involve a suicide bomber.
The earlier social media claims have not been independently verified and were denied by Saudi security authorities.
This is a developing story.
