Recently, it was reported that the Dubai Police has already arrested 25 beggars in the five days of Ramadan. This move, however, hardly comes as a surprise, since the police squad aims to crack down on beggars as a part of their anti-begging campaign. Here’s all you need to know about the development of these arrests.
A Crack Down On Beggars In Dubai?
According to a news report by Khaleej Times, recently the Dubai Police arrest 25 beggars. It’s worth mentioning that 13 of these were women and the move comes after their strict guidelines against begging. The Director of the General Department of Criminal Investigation, Major-General Jamal Salem Al Jallaf states that the anti-begging campaign has reduced the number of beggars coming to Dubai annually. Moreover, these strict measures have been put in place to reduce the number of beggars as they’re often linked to serious crimes such as thefts and robberies.
Begging Is Illegal & A Punishable Offence Under The Federal Law
Talking about this, he mentioned that there are already many charities, official entities, and associations available for those who require aid, financially or need any kind of meal, during the month of Ramadan. However, it must be noted that begging is illegal, and it’s a punishable offence under federal law!
The residents in the emirate have also been urged to not respond to any of the pleas or show any kind of sympathy for beggars. They are, in fact, urged to immediately call on 901 call centre or the ‘Police Eye Service’ that is available on the police app. Moreover, people have also been warned against falling prey to such messages, often even circulated on social media or even through email. They are being encouraged to report about the same to the e-Crime platform.
What Is The Anti-Begging Campaign?
A campaign to combat begging during the month of Ramadan, which aims to ensure that help reaches those who really needed. It was during the previous year’s crackdowns that it was found most beggars were visiting the country on visit visas!
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