Saudi law imposes fines of up to SR100,000 for involvement in organized begging
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The arrests were part of an ongoing security campaign led by Jeddah police, in coordination with the General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes. Illustrative image.
The arrests were part of an ongoing security campaign led by Jeddah police, in coordination with the General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes. Illustrative image.
Dubai: Twelve Yemeni nationals have been arrested for exploiting women and children of their own nationality by forcing them into begging in public squares and on busy roads in Jeddah.
The arrests were part of an ongoing security campaign led by Jeddah police, in coordination with the General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes. The campaign aims to curb organised begging and address human trafficking violations in the city.
Also Read: Dubai Police arrest 127 beggars, seize Dh50,000 in Ramadan begging crackdown
The detainees were found to be in violation of Saudi Arabia’s Anti-Human Trafficking Law and were referred to the Public Prosecution after the completion of legal procedures.
In addition to taking action against the perpetrators, the security authorities have coordinated with relevant agencies to provide essential humanitarian services to the victims of exploitation. Efforts are also underway to ensure that the children involved receive proper care, protection, and psychological support.
Saudi law strictly prohibits begging, imposing severe penalties on those who engage in or facilitate the practice, in line with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals.
Under the Anti-Begging Law, individuals convicted of managing, encouraging, or participating in organized begging operations face up to one year in prison and a fine of SR100,000.
Those who help or abet beggary may be sentenced to six months in jail or fined up to SR50,000 ($13,330), or both.
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