DUBAI – In a major crackdown on organized begging, Dubai Police arrested 41 individuals of Arab origin operating from a hotel in the city, seizing over AED 60,000 in cash. The arrests were made as part of Operation Al-Misbah (“The Prayer Bead”), a targeted initiative led by the Department of Suspects and Criminal Phenomena under the General Department of Criminal Investigation.
Coordinated Crackdown Targets Organized Crime
The suspects, who had entered the UAE on visit visas, were residing in the same hotel and allegedly engaged in a coordinated begging scheme disguised as selling prayer beads and accessories. The operation was launched after authorities received a tip-off through the police’s 901 hotline regarding suspicious activity involving street solicitation.
Surveillance was initiated immediately. Officers first apprehended three individuals who were found soliciting funds in public areas. Upon questioning, the suspects admitted to being part of a larger group engaged in organized begging.
41 Arrested, Cash Recovered, Legal Action Underway
Further investigations, in collaboration with the hotel management, led to the arrest of 28 additional suspects staying in the same hotel. The next day, 10 more individuals were detained as they attempted to flee the premises. All suspects confessed to participating in the illegal operation and have been referred to the relevant authorities for prosecution.
Authorities recovered more than AED 60,000 in cash believed to be collected through this network.
Police Urge Public to Report Begging
Dubai Police have reiterated their warning against giving money to unverified individuals, emphasizing the need to donate only through licensed charities and official channels.
Residents are encouraged to report begging through the following methods:
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Call the toll-free number 901
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Use the “Police Eye” feature on the Dubai Police smart app
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Report online begging via the E-Crime platform
Part of Ongoing “Combat Begging” Campaign
This crackdown is part of Dubai Police’s annual “Combat Begging” campaign, run under the theme “A Conscious Society, Free of Begging.” The campaign seeks to protect the public from exploitation, raise awareness, and preserve the UAE’s image as a safe and law-abiding nation.
Authorities noted that organized begging syndicates often become more active during religious holidays, aiming to evoke sympathy and exploit charitable sentiments through deceptive tactics.
Strict Laws and Strategic Partnerships in Place
Dubai Police confirmed that begging is a criminal offence under UAE law. The force has a comprehensive security plan in place that includes increased patrols in areas where such activities are common. The campaign, run in coordination with various strategic partners, has contributed to a year-on-year reduction in reported begging cases across the city.
