To combat the phenomenon of begging that prevails during the Holy Month of Ramadan, Ajman Police will be launching an awareness campaign under the slogan “Combat and Don’t Reward.”

The campaign is aimed at urging people to contribute positively in curbing the number of beggars on roads and other public places by ignoring them and not rewarding them.

Lieutenant Colonel Abdulla Saif Al Matrooshi, director of Criminal Investigation of Ajman Police, said begging was usually at its peak during Ramadan. He added that there were gangs who waited for this period to commence their begging “business” by actually employing beggars who are brought to the country on visit visas for the purpose.

“Beggars are very active during this month and they manipulate the sentiment prevalent during this Holy Month to gain the mercy of Muslims, by claiming they are in real need of money. They exploit people who offer zakat or Ramadan donations and we consider this phenomenon a negative one that should be seriously combated not only by the police force but by society members as well.”

He assured that the police was determined to ensure the success of the campaign that mainly aims at reducing the number of beggars who reflect an image of an uncivilised society.

“A security team from the police has been formed to intensify security presence at the sites that are mainly targeted by the beggars, such as commercial markets and residential areas and mosques and banks.”

He added that the police have also publicised contact details of charity institutions for those who are in real need of financial help.

The police have also allocated a phone number for members of the public to report any begging activity witnessed in Ajman by calling 06-7401616 or 06-7409999.

The campaign will also feature the distribution of awareness pamphlets highlighting the menace, which will be distributed in various areas of the emirate.