Abu Dhabi Police Arrest 237 Beggars During Ramadan
Enforcement efforts intensify across UAE as authorities combat begging and associated fraudulent activities.
Abu Dhabi Police reported the arrest of 237 individuals throughout the month of Ramadan as part of ongoing initiatives to combat begging and related fraudulent activities in the emirate.
Major Muslim Mohammed Al-Amiri, Deputy Director of the Criminal Security Sector, indicated that an increasing number of beggars are employing deceptive narratives to solicit funds from unsuspecting residents.
In light of these developments, police have initiated a series of campaigns aimed at apprehending beggars, irrespective of their manipulation tactics.
Major Al-Amiri urged the public to contribute to reducing begging by refraining from giving money directly to beggars.
He emphasized the importance of utilizing official channels, charities, and accredited organizations for donations, ensuring that assistance reaches individuals in genuine need.
He warned that by providing money to beggars, community members may inadvertently sustain the cycle of begging, potentially encouraging fraudulent behaviors disguised as charitable acts.
The crackdown on begging is not isolated to Abu Dhabi; law enforcement agencies across the UAE are intensifying their efforts.
In Dubai, law enforcement apprehended 127 beggars during the initial half of Ramadan, confiscating over Dh50,000 from the individuals involved.
Meanwhile, Sharjah Police reported the arrest of 107 individuals, including 87 men and 20 women, with similar financial seizures.
In Ras Al Khaimah, authorities have detained 51 beggars since Ramadan commenced.
In early March, Abu Dhabi Police had issued a caution to citizens about engaging with beggars during Ramadan, advocating for donations through official and verified channels.
An awareness video disseminated on social media by the Abu Dhabi Police highlighted the risks associated with begging, framing it as a practice that threatens the security and safety of society.
The 'Fight Begging' campaign was unveiled to educate the public about the significance of maintaining the UAE’s civil standards by preventing begging-related infractions.
In the UAE, begging is criminalized, with penalties including a Dh5,000 fine and up to three months of imprisonment.
Those implicated in operating begging syndicates or who recruit individuals from outside of the country face harsher penalties, including a six-month jail term and a Dh100,000 fine.
Moreover, unpermitted fundraising efforts may incur fines as high as Dh500,000.
Additionally, substantial preparations have been implemented in Dubai to ensure public safety and security during the upcoming Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
The efforts are overseen by Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithy, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations at Dubai Police.
As part of these security measures, authorities plan to secure all major mosques and prayer spaces hosting Eid prayers, while enhancing patrols in key areas, commercial centers, and open markets.
The security plan includes the deployment of 34 marine security boats, two helicopters, 138 ambulance locations, and extensive ground support, encompassing 471 patrol vehicles and numerous additional emergency response units.
The strategy also addresses transportation logistics, ensuring ample public transport and private vehicle availability to accommodate the influx of residents and visitors.
Authorities are encouraging the community to adhere to established speed limits for road safety during the celebratory period and have mobilized additional resources to handle emergency situations.
Furthermore, warnings have been issued regarding the risks associated with fireworks, urging parents to prevent children from handling these potentially dangerous items.
Plans have also been established to promote recreational activities for labor communities during the Eid period, further emphasizing the engagement of the public in festive celebrations.
Translation:
Translated by AI
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