ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Capital Territory Administration, in collaboration with the police, has conducted a vigorous campaign against professional begging, resulting in the arrest of more than 900 individuals in the past month. According to an official, out of the total arrested beggars, 45% were male, 38% female, 7% minors, and 10% transgender individuals.
Teams led by Assistant Commissioners and Magistrates were formed to carry out the anti-begging campaign throughout the capital. The crackdown intensified during the holy month of Ramazan, as beggar mafias became more active during this period.
Upon apprehension, professional beggars were taken to the nearest police station for further processing. Minors found among them were compassionately directed to the Edhi Center for proper care and support.
The ICT Spokesman, Dr. Abdullah Tabassum, highlighted that minors caught begging were handed over to shelter homes and Edhi centers. However, there have been instances where these minors later obtained affidavits or paid fines to authorities, resulting in their release.
The Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad has directed the continuation of the crackdown against professional begging until the complete elimination of alms-seekers from society. The ICT administration remains committed to eradicating this practice and ensuring social welfare and order in the Federal Capital.
