Dubai Police arrest 37 beggars in second week of Ramadan

The Department of Suspects and Criminal Phenomena at the General Department of Criminal Investigation of Dubai Police, in coordination with local police stations, arrested 37 beggars from various nationalities during the second week of Ramadan.

This action was part of the "Combat Begging" campaign initiated by the Dubai Police under the theme "A Conscious Society, Without Begging."

The campaign is carried out in collaboration with strategic partners, including the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai and the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai. Its primary goal is to raise public awareness about preserving the nation's civilised image by actively combating and preventing begging.

Brigadier Ali Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the Department of Suspects and Criminal Phenomena, stated that the anti-begging campaign is among the most effective initiatives launched by the department in collaboration with its partners.

This campaign has significantly helped reduce the number of beggars each year, thanks to the strict and decisive actions taken against those apprehended. During the second week of the holy month, the campaign led to the arrest of 37 beggars from various nationalities.

Al Shamsi explained that the Dubai Police remain dedicated to addressing societal issues and actively monitors the deceptive tactics employed by beggars every year.

This initiative aims to craft strategies and programmes that effectively combat these behaviors, ultimately leading to the apprehension of those involved and safeguarding the community. He noted that beggars often attempt to take advantage of the compassion and charitable spirit that characterise the holy month of Ramadan to acquire illegal gains.

Al Shamsi also cautioned against engaging with such acts, which manifest in various forms, including the exploitation of children, individuals with illnesses, and people with disabilities to evoke sympathy. Numerous instances of such practices have been documented.

He emphasized the importance of using official channels for charitable work and aid distribution through recognized organizations and institutions. This ensures donations are delivered effectively to those in need, encouraging the community to contribute via these authorised pathways.

Al Shamsi also urged the public to report instances of begging by contacting 901 or utilizing the "Police Eye" feature on the Dubai Police smartphone app. Additionally, he highlighted the option of reporting online begging through the Ecrime platform.