Police bust hotel-based gang of 41 in Dubai over begging suspicions

Dubai Police are intensifying their efforts to combat organised begging, urging community members to report any suspicious activity through official channels. 

This comes after the recent arrest of 41 individuals of Arab nationality, all residing in the same hotel, who were operating as part of an organised begging ring.

According to a press release issued by Dubai Police, the arrests were made during a targeted security operation codenamed "Al-Misbah" (Arabic for "prayer bead"), carried out by the Department of Suspects and Criminal Phenomena at the General Department of Criminal Investigation. 

Police confirmed that the hotel served as a base for their illicit activities, with over AED 60,000 found in their possession.

Police have reminded the public to contribute to charitable causes only through licensed associations and official channels to ensure donations reach those truly in need. 

The force emphasised the importance of reporting any begging activity by calling the toll-free number 901, using the "Police Eye" feature on the Dubai Police smart app, or reporting online begging via the E-Crime platform.

This operation falls under the force's ongoing "Combat Begging" campaign, launched under the slogan "A Conscious Society, Free of Begging." 

In cooperation with strategic partners, the campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of begging and uphold the UAE's civilised image by preventing and combating all forms of this practice.

Case details unfold

The operation was initiated following a tip-off received through the 901 call centre about individuals seen begging while ostensibly selling prayer beads and accessories. 

The Monitoring and Analysis Section promptly began surveillance, observing three Arab individuals selling these items and soliciting money from the public. They were arrested on the spot.

During questioning, the suspects confessed to being part of a larger organised begging ring. They had entered the UAE on visit visas and were residing in a hotel. 

In a coordinated effort with hotel management, 28 more suspects of the same nationality were arrested. The following day, an additional 10 individuals were apprehended as they attempted to leave the hotel. 

All admitted to operating as an organised group for begging and have been referred to the relevant authorities for legal action.

Dubai Police affirmed that the "Combat Begging" campaign, launched annually in coordination with strategic partners, continues to effectively reduce the number of beggars each year due to strict enforcement measures. 

A comprehensive annual security plan is implemented, including increased patrols in areas prone to such activity.

Dubai Police warned that beggars often exploit religious occasions and holidays to provoke sympathy through professional and deceitful means, an act considered a criminal offence under UAE law.