Anti-begging efforts: 5 violators apprehended in Riyadh and Al-Jawf
As part of ongoing security campaigns aimed at maintaining security and public order, efforts to combat begging steadily and decisively across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Recently, these efforts resulted in the arrest of five individuals involved in this negative phenomenon. Specifically, security patrols in the Riyadh region apprehended four Yemeni nationals who violated border security regulations by begging and soliciting money from passersby. In a related incident, security patrols in the Al-Jawf region arrested a Bangladeshi resident for the same offense. All violators were immediately detained, and all necessary legal procedures were initiated against them before their referral to the appropriate authorities.
The historical development of anti-begging efforts in the Kingdom
These security measures were not a spur-of-the-moment decision, but rather the culmination of a long history of organized institutional efforts. Historically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has given considerable attention to combating begging, recognizing early on the social and economic risks associated with the spread of this phenomenon. Mechanisms for dealing with beggars have evolved over decades, starting with social guidance and counseling, and culminating in the enactment of the Anti-Begging Law, which includes strict legislation criminalizing begging in all its forms, whether direct, indirect, or even through modern electronic means. This comprehensive legal framework aims to protect society from exploitation and to cut off illicit funding sources that could be used for suspicious activities detrimental to national security.
The security and social impact of anti-begging campaigns
These intensive security campaigns are of paramount importance and have a wide-ranging positive impact at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, combating begging contributes to enhancing the sense of security and safety among citizens and residents, and directly reduces crimes associated with this phenomenon, such as theft, pickpocketing, and the exploitation of children and women for financial gain. Regionally and internationally, the Kingdom's commitment to enforcing strict laws reflects positively on its regulatory and security environment and underscores its leading role in combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism. Investigations have repeatedly demonstrated that much of the money collected through begging networks is smuggled abroad through illicit means to support organized crime gangs.
Directing donations through official, approved platforms
In light of these tireless efforts, Saudi Public Security reiterated its repeated call to all citizens and residents to exercise caution and refrain from indiscriminately giving to beggars. Public Security urged all donors to direct their charitable donations through official and approved platforms in the Kingdom, such as the “Ihsan” platform, the National Donations Platform, and other trusted channels. Adherence to this directive ensures that funds reach their intended beneficiaries—families in need and those truly deserving—under rigorous government oversight that guarantees transparency and reliability. These integrated steps are part of the Ministry of Interior’s strategy, represented by Public Security, to completely eradicate the phenomenon of begging and promote the values of social solidarity based on sound legal principles.
