RIYADH: Riyadh region police have detained five Bangladeshi residents for begging and initiated legal proceedings against them, the Ministry of Interior’s Public Security directorate announced on Friday.
The arrests, reported by the Saudi Press Agency, form part of the ministry’s continuing efforts to combat begging in all its forms across the Kingdom.
Public Security also urged citizens and residents to direct charitable donations through approved official platforms and licensed entities to ensure assistance reaches eligible beneficiaries.
Part of broader anti-begging campaign
The latest arrests come amid a nationwide campaign by Saudi authorities to address begging as a social, economic and security issue.
The Ministry of Interior has repeatedly stressed that begging is prohibited in all forms, regardless of the circumstances or justifications presented by those involved.
Under the Kingdom’s Anti-Begging Law, individuals who engage in the practice, encourage others to do so, conspire with them or provide assistance may face imprisonment, fines, or both.
Foreigners convicted of begging-related offenses may also face deportation after serving their sentences, except in cases involving the spouse of a Saudi citizen or children of a Saudi mother.
Authorities have emphasized that combating begging requires both law enforcement measures and public cooperation.
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Security and social concerns
Saudi officials have warned that begging can extend beyond a social welfare issue and may be linked to wider criminal activities, including human trafficking, child exploitation, theft, drug trafficking, money laundering and the employment of undocumented workers.
Government agencies say some beggars exploit public generosity by soliciting money at traffic intersections, mosques, shopping centers, markets and other public locations, particularly during religious seasons and peak periods of charitable giving.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, through its anti-begging directorate, conducts year-round awareness campaigns in coordination with security authorities, with efforts intensifying during periods when cases typically increase.
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Public reporting encouraged
Saudi authorities have described reporting beggars as a national responsibility and have urged the public not to provide money directly to individuals soliciting alms.
Instead, donations are encouraged through official charitable platforms and licensed organizations, including Ehsan, Furijat, Jood Housing, Sahem and Tarahum, among others.
The Ministry of Interior has called on citizens and residents to report begging cases by calling 911 in Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah and the Eastern Province, and 999 in other parts of the Kingdom. Authorities have said all reports are handled confidentially.
The anti-begging campaign forms part of broader efforts to enhance community security, protect charitable giving from exploitation and support the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which places a strong emphasis on quality of life, social welfare and public safety.
