Islamabad Police have arrested 588 professional beggars so far this year as part of an ongoing crackdown on organized begging networks in the federal capital. Cases have been registered under the Islamabad Prevention of Beggary Act.
The operations are being carried out on the special directives of Inspector General of Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, according to a police press release.
Authorities said comprehensive action is underway not only against professional beggars but also against their facilitators.
Police stated that legal action is being taken against individuals who harass citizens on roads, intersections, markets, and commercial centers.
Facilitators and contractors providing transport and logistical support to begging networks are being identified through Safe City surveillance cameras and human intelligence.
The statement added that action is also being taken against parents who hand over their children to criminal elements for begging.
Police further revealed that several individuals posing as beggars were found involved in street crimes across different areas of the city.
All officers have been directed to intensify operations and make them more effective. Citizens have been urged to discourage professional begging and report such activities to the police emergency helpline “Pucar-15.”
Islamabad Police have also conducted eight large-scale search and combing operations.
During operations carried out last week:
Additionally, 86 suspicious individuals, including 20 foreigners, along with 25 motorcycles were shifted to police stations for verification.
The IGP has directed that operations continue across the district to curb organized crime and ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property.
Police have appealed to the public to cooperate during checks and promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.