AS MUSLIMS across the country prepare for the important annual pilgrimage to Mecca, police are warning families to protect themselves from fraudsters.

As part of a national campaign, Dyfed-Powys Police is working to protect Muslim families from fraud as they make plans for Hajj - an annual pilgrimage that sees around 2million Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia, and one of the most important dates in the Islamic calendar.

Detective Inspector Anthony Evans, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “Hajj fraud can destroy the dreams people have of making a once in a lifetime pilgrimage to Mecca.

"Many victims will have saved for years to be able to afford to travel to Saudi Arabia and as a result will be absolutely devastated when they find out they have been conned by fraudsters.

“While there have been no reports of victims of Hajj fraud in Dyfed-Powys, we are keen to ensure our Muslim communities know how to stay safe from fraud and have the confidence to report to police if they do fall victim of such crime.

"Only by knowing the true scale and nature of the threat can we effectively target fraudsters.

“All types of travel fraud are unacceptable, but Hajj related fraud is particularly distressing as this is often a once in a lifetime event for many pilgrims and they may never again be in position to fulfil what is an important religious duty for the pilgrim.”

The best ways to protect yourself fraudsters is to:

* Do your research – don’t book without carrying out some basic check on your travel agency or tour operator. Look for reviews from people who have used them before, and check the company is a member of ABTA.

* Make sure any flight companies are ATOL protected.

*Get everything in writing and make sure your flight details accommodation and Hajj visa are valid.

* Do not pay a travel company by cash or by direct bank transfer into an individual’s account as if they turn out to be fraudulent it will be virtually impossible to get your money back.

* Report crime to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at www.actionfraud.police.uk.