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Anti-begging campaign launched in RAK

Ras Al Khaimah - Up to 35,000 brochures shall be distributed across the emirate to enlighten the public about the negative impact of begging

The Ras Al Khaimah Police have launched a campaign against beggars in the emirate. Beggars, from different nationalities, are mostly reported in the holy month of Ramadan as people tend to be more giving, according to a senior official.
The RAK Police had nabbed 30 beggars in Ramadan 2016 as compared to seven in 2017. Lt-Col Marwan Abdullah Jakkah, director of the media and PR department, RAK Police, said the campaign themed 'Fight begging, Help the eligible', is in line with the interior ministry strategy to ensure the security, safety and stability of the country.
"Begging is a crime as per Law No. 10, and a jail term of not more than three months and a fine of not more than Dh3,000 shall be slapped against any beggar as per Article 4 of the Law No. 10. Should the beggar be a foreigner, he or she shall be liable to deportation as per the court jurisdiction," he said. "Should anyone instigate a minor to go begging - be they guardians or empowered for the same, they shall suffer a six-month imprisonment at least, as per Article No. 7 of the same law."
The RAK Police urged the public to stop helping or showing sympathy to beggars. "Charity societies need to be supported instead of beggars to meet the needs of real indigent people."
He added that some beggars turn into social media channels for begging. "Some claim to be collecting charities for building mosques or providing medicines to vulnerable patients. Any beggar should be reported to the security bodies concerned at this mobile number (050-7669229)." 
Begging is a 'disease' that hampers the production of the society and spreads laziness, unemployment, and fraud. Up to 35,000 brochures shall be distributed across the emirate to enlighten the public about the negative impact of this phenomenon, he stated. "These shall be distributed everywhere and at the RAK police social media channels."
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com