A woman is caught begging on the street in Dubai. DUBAI POLICE

Dubai Police arrests 67 beggars since start of Ramadan

The Dubai Police has arrested 67 beggars since the start of Ramadan, according to the General Department of Criminal Investigations. Out of the 67 people arrested, 31 are men and 36 are women. Under the UAE law, begging is a crime punishable with jail time of up to three months and a fine of up to Dh5,000. Those caught running a begging syndicate face tougher penalties, including jail time of up to six months and a fine of up to Dh100,000. ALSO READ: UAE warns begging syndicates of hefty fine “Begging is a wrong concept of compassion,” said Colonel Ali Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the Infiltration Control Department in the General Department of Criminal Investigations. Police have repeatedly warned the public that beggars and street peddlers only exploit people’s feelings and sympathy for financial gain. Colonel Al Shamsi explained that begging encourages thefts and robberies, and the exploitation of children, the sick, and people of determination for illegitimate gains. He emphasized that individuals should channel their donations through government-approved charities and associations. He urged the public to report beggars through the hotline 901, or through the Dubai Police app Police Eye. Reports can also be filed through ecrime.ae. ICA/Expat Media
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