Free Republic

MAKKAH, 28 August 2006 — Walking through the area of Hosh Bakr behind the Al-Mansour Street of Makkah, you could easily think you were in Africa. The disarray of a developing country is found here in this wide plaza nestled among the un-zoned residential neighborhoods in the hills that surround this holy city. Nearly everyone here is of African origin. There are many undocumented migrants and overstayers here. It is a common perception among residents of Makkah that Hosh Bakr is where a lot of illegal activity occurs. The area is known for its black market. Should you have the...