SHARJAH: Sharjah Police recently apprehended an illegal resident who had managed to collect a substantial sum of Dh14,000 in just three days through begging near a mosque. The individual was caught after a member of the public reported his activities, observing him asking worshippers for money under the pretext of financial hardship. The report was promptly acted upon by the authorities, who identified the man as an illegal resident in the country. This arrest highlights the growing concern surrounding illegal begging activities in the city and their potential impact on both social and security matters.
Upon arrest, police discovered that the individual had been actively soliciting funds from passersby and worshippers, claiming to be in desperate need due to financial difficulties. However, further investigation revealed that the individual had managed to gather a significant amount of money within a short period, indicating organized and strategic begging rather than genuine distress. This discovery has sparked concern regarding the extent to which such activities can be used for exploiting others and circumventing legal and social norms. The individual was subsequently arrested and is facing legal consequences for his actions.
Brigadier General Omar Al-Ghazal Al-Shamsi of Sharjah Police emphasized the importance of addressing begging as both a social and security challenge. He noted that while some individuals may genuinely be in need, the practice of begging can often be exploited by illegal residents and criminal groups to generate income. He urged the public to be cautious and not to give money to beggars, as it might be supporting illegal activities. Instead, citizens are encouraged to report any suspected begging to the authorities, helping curb the prevalence of this issue in the community.
In response to the growing concerns over begging, Sharjah Police have ramped up their efforts to tackle the problem. The ongoing campaign aims to raise awareness about the negative effects of begging and to prevent individuals from falling victim to scams or enabling illegal activities. Authorities are actively monitoring areas with high foot traffic, including places of worship, in an attempt to deter such behavior and ensure that residents and visitors alike are not subjected to fraudulent practices. The public’s cooperation in reporting such activities is vital for the continued success of these efforts.
