Dubai Police Nab Beggar with Three Luxury Cars in Ramadan Anti-Begging Drive
In a startling revelation during the holy month of Ramadan, Dubai Police have apprehended a beggar who was found to possess three luxury vehicles and a substantial amount of money. According to an officer speaking to Al Khaleej newspaper, the individual confessed to accumulating his wealth through deceptive begging practices, capitalizing on the heightened generosity of the community during this sacred period.
Elaborate Deception Uncovered
Brigadier Ali Al Shamsi, Director of the Suspects and Criminal Phenomena Department, detailed the beggar's sophisticated operation. The man would complete his daily "begging shift" in public view, skillfully manipulating emotions by fabricating heart-wrenching stories and humanitarian details. After his performance, he would change his appearance and drive away in one of his high-end luxury cars, shedding the exhausted persona he presented to donors.
This methodical approach was described as no less than an organized, profit-driven enterprise, highlighting the calculated nature of his activities. Large sums of cash were discovered in his possession, with one instance noting a beggar who had collected Dh25,000—enough to fund a return journey home—yet continued to solicit funds.
Ramadan Exploitation and Legal Consequences
The officer emphasized that approximately 90% of the beggars arrested entered the United Arab Emirates on visit visas, specifically timing their activities to exploit the charitable spirit of Ramadan among citizens and residents. This has prompted an intensive anti-begging crackdown across the emirate.
Under Federal Law No. 9 of 2018, individuals caught begging in the UAE face severe penalties:
- Up to three months in prison
- A fine of Dh5,000
For those involved in managing organized begging rings or recruiting individuals from abroad, the consequences are even harsher:
- Up to six months in prison
- Fines reaching Dh100,000
Campaign Against Begging
In the first week of Ramadan alone, Dubai Police have arrested over 26 beggars of various nationalities as part of their 'Combat Begging' campaign. This initiative, operating under the slogan 'A Conscious Society, Free of Begging', is a collaborative effort with partners including the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department.
The campaign aims to raise public awareness about preserving the country's civilized image and preventing begging, urging residents to report suspicious activities through official channels.
Public Awareness and Reporting
Residents are encouraged to report beggars by dialing the toll-free number 901 or using the 'Police Eye' service available on the Dubai Police smart app. Additionally, authorities have issued warnings about online begging scams during Ramadan, advising the public not to engage with appeals circulating on websites and social media platforms to avoid falling victim to fraud.
This crackdown underscores Dubai's commitment to maintaining social order and protecting its community from exploitation, especially during times of increased religious observance and charity.
