Dubai Police arrest 24 people in anti-begging campaign

Police urged people not to be duped by beggers and instead donate to registered charities

Dubai Police launched anti-begging campaign before the start of Ramadan under the slogan "begging is misunderstood for compassion”. Pawan Singh / The National 

Dubai Police arrested 24 people as part of its campaign to combat begging.

Launched at the start of Ramadan under the slogan "begging is misunderstood for compassion,” police intensified patrols in places expected to be frequented by beggars and said violators included street vendors.

Twelve people were arrested on the first day of the holy month.

Police urged well-intentioned people not to be duped and instead donate to registered charities.

Brig Ahmed Thani bin Ghalita, director of Al Raffa Police Station, said the campaign was successful.

"There are official and charitable entities and authorities that are ready to help the needy, which we at Dubai Police urge whoever is in need of financial aid turn to," said Brig Thani.

"Begging poses a serious threat to the safety and security of our society. We take the matter seriously as it ruins the reputation of the emirate and also affects the security as it increases cases of thefts and pickpocketing."