*Dubai Police Crack Down on Begging: Man Caught Disguised as Woman Near Mosque*
As the holy month of Ramadan commences, Dubai Police have intensified their efforts to combat begging, a crime considered a form of fraud and deception concealed as charity. In a surprising turn of events, a young Arab man was caught near a mosque, disguised in an abaya and niqab, attempting to solicit donations from unsuspecting worshippers.
According to Brigadier Ali Salem Al Shamsi, director of Suspects and Criminal Phenomena Department at the Dubai Police, the man donned women's attire in a bid to garner more sympathy from potential donors. "The man was wearing a woman's clothing because he believed people tend to sympathize more with begging women than men," Al Shamsi explained.
The suspect was apprehended following a tip from a vigilant resident, who reported a suspicious young man disguised as a woman begging near the mosque. This incident highlights the importance of community involvement in combating begging and other forms of deception.
*Ramadan: A Time for Charity, Not Deception*
During Ramadan, Dubai Police have launched comprehensive security activities to prevent begging and other illicit activities. The authorities have arrested 17 beggars on the first day of Ramadan alone, comprising 13 males and four females.
Dubai Police have reiterated their warning to the public not to fall prey to scammers who exploit people's sympathy during the holy month. "The stories they tell and claims they make are contrary to the truth, and residents must be vigilant and not deal with them," Al Shamsi cautioned.
*Consequences of Begging and Deception*
Offenders caught begging or engaging in deceptive activities will face severe penalties, including:
- A minimum fine of Dh5,000 and up to three months in prison
- Imprisonment of no less than six months and a fine of not less than Dh100,000 for those who organize begging activities or bring individuals from abroad to engage in begging
- A fine of not less than Dh250,000 and not more than Dh500,000, or subject to either of these penalties, for those using information technology to solicit or promote fundraising without an approved license
*Where to Donate: Supporting Legitimate Charities*
To ensure that donations reach the needy and not dubious individuals or groups, Al Shamsi strongly advised the public to donate to registered and legitimate charitable organizations. The public can report any illegal activities or begging by calling 901 or using the 'Police Eye' service on the Dubai Police smart app.
As the holy month of Ramadan continues, it is essential for residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant and support legitimate charitable causes. By doing so, we can ensure that our donations make a positive impact on the lives of those in need, while also upholding the values of honesty and integrity that define our community.
Abu Dhabi Police have cracked down on professional begging during Ramadan, arresting 237 individuals in a bid to maintain public safety and order. This effort is part of the police's ongoing campaign to combat begging, which is considered a form of fraud and deception in the UAE.
The arrested beggars, mostly of Asian nationalities, were caught in areas such as mosques, markets, and residential neighborhoods ¹. Police officials emphasized that begging is a serious issue that increases during Ramadan, as individuals seek to capitalize on the charitable spirit of the holy month.
*Consequences of Begging*
To deter people from engaging in begging, Abu Dhabi Police have reminded residents that begging is illegal and can result in:
- _Fines_: Up to AED 5,000
- _Imprisonment_: Up to three months
Additionally, police have urged the public to donate to charity only through official, approved channels, to ensure that their contributions reach those in genuine need ².
*The Police's Awareness Campaign*
To raise awareness about the dangers of begging, Abu Dhabi Police have launched an awareness campaign, which includes:
- _Social Media_: Sharing awareness videos and messages on social media platforms
- _Community Outreach_: Engaging with local communities to educate them about the risks of begging
By saying no to professional beggars, we can help maintain the safety and security of our communities, while also ensuring that our charitable efforts reach those who truly need them.
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