SHAFAQNA – All the groups of Welsh Muslims taking part in the Hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca have been accounted for and are safe.
More than 700 people died in a stampede during the annual pilgrimage on September 24.
Between 250 and 300 Welsh Muslims had travelled to the holy city and as of Friday, two groups were accounted for but a third had yet to make contact with the Muslim Council of Wales.
Group to provide support for those returning
But today, the Muslim Council of Wales Secretary General Saleem Kidwai has now confirmed he has made contact with all group leaders from Wales and all are accounted for.
The groups are from Cardiff, Swansea and Newport.
Director of projects for the Muslim Council of Wales, Mohammed Alamgir, said the group will provide adequate support services to the returning parties through the network of chaplains and Imams.
‘Prayers offered across Wales hoping for good news’
“There was great concern for families and many members of the Welsh Muslim community waited anxiously for news of their loved ones and friends.
“Prayers were offered across Wales hoping for good news,” the group said in a statement.
Investigation launched into cause of stampede
The Saudi government has launched an investigation into the stampede to find out how it happened.
The Muslim Council of Wales said it hopes for further safeguards to ensure the safety of pilgrims to prevent another tragedy like this from occurring.