UAE: How you can report begging scams

Police authorities have urged people to be alert during Ramadan

Last updated: April 29, 2020 | 15:25

Huda Tabrez, Living in UAE Editor

2 MIN READ

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Beware of strangers asking you for financial help. Begging is illegal in the UAE.

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Illegal begging rises during Ramadan, and police authorities have warned residents to watch out for begging scams.

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Abu Dhabi Police has launched 'Together against begging' campaign to raise awareness.

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Beggars may use the financial impact of COVID-19 as a fake story to convince donors to contribute.

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Abu Dhabi Police will also be monitoring certain areas to crackdown on illegal begging.

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Illegal begging doesn't just scam the donor, it is also part of many other illegal activities like human trafficking and abuse.

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Colonel Ali Salem, Director of the Anti-Infiltrators Department at Dubai Police, advised people not to get emotionally manipulated through fake stories of disability or financial struggle.

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With movement restrictions in place, scammers could turn to social media to dupe people.

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How you can report beggars - call Abu Dhabi Police on the numbers above for cases within the emirate.

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In Dubai, you can call or report online to Dubai Police.

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Sharjah Police has also launched an awareness campaign.

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Picture used for illustrative purposes only.

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If not to beggars, how do you know who to give charity to? The UAE has regulated charity organisations, that support social causes within the UAE and outside.

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Anyone caught begging will be fined Dh5,000 and imprisoned for up to three months.

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Professional gangs face jail terms of at least six months and a minimum fine of Dh100,000.

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Those caught begging but with a genuine problem may be referred to the relevant authorities for assistance and support.

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