Dubai Police arrests 127 beggars with AED 50k in possession

Authorities have apprehended 127 beggars during the first half of Ramadan, with more than AED 50,000 found in their possession, according to the Department of Suspects and Criminal Phenomena at the General Department of Criminal Investigation and Dubai Police.

The arrests come as part of Dubai Police’s ongoing “Combat Begging” campaign, launched in collaboration with strategic partners including the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, Dubai Municipality, and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD). 

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the negative impact of begging and reduce this phenomenon through preventive and legal measures.

Deputy Director of the Department of Suspects and Criminal Phenomena, Colonel Ahmad Al Adeedi, affirmed that “Combat Begging” is one of the most effective campaigns launched by Dubai Police, contributing to a yearly reduction in the number of beggars due to the strict actions taken against offenders.

He explained that Dubai Police develops a comprehensive annual security plan in cooperation with relevant authorities, increasing patrols in areas where beggars are likely to appear. He warned that begging threatens public safety, tarnishes the country’s image, and is often linked to crimes such as theft, pickpocketing, and exploitation of children, the sick, and people of determination for illegal gain.

He encouraged those in need to seek help from official entities and registered charitable organisations, which provide legitimate support such as financial assistance and iftar meals.

Head of the Anti-Begging Section, Captain Abdullah Khamis, stated that many beggars claim financial hardship, but begging is illegal and punishable by law. He urged the public to play an active role in supporting security efforts by donating through licensed charities, ensuring that aid reaches those genuinely in need.