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100 arrested in crackdown on beggars and vendors

SHARJAH — Police have arrested 100 people — 79 beggars and 21 street vendors — in just five days of the holy month of Ramadan, a senior official said. The number is the highest ever registered in the first five days of the holy month, said Col Mohammed Rashid Al Bayat, new director of CID.

He attributed the increased number to the intensive anti-begging campaign, saying that Sharjah was not a haven for beggars this month.

“We expect fewer arrests in future,” Col Al Bayat said. “Most of the beggars have been arrested early enough so that they not disturb the fasting Muslims.” Most of those arrested were Asian women. The street vendors were found selling unlicensed goods and food items that cause health risks.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, Col Al Bayat said the crackdown was aimed at ensuring the safety and security of residents in the emirate. He pointed out that many of the arrested beggars had entered the country on visit visas or as labourers contracted by some companies. To gain the sympathy of the people, the beggars were found to be using various ploys, including pretending to be suffering from paralysis, or having suffered fractures. Some of them even used their children and the elderly to arouse the sympathy of people.

Al Bayat said begging is prohibited in the country and the police make no distinction while cracking down on beggars. Poor people, irrespective of their nationalities, can approach charity organisations for assistance.

He called upon the public to report all beggars and street vendors. They can call on 999 or 06 5623322. 
 afkarali@khaleejtimes.com

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