Dubai Police have arrested a 22-member gang of beggars who were targeting motorists on major roads, following a report submitted by a member of the public.

According to Dubai Police, the suspects were operating on several major and busy roads, where they allegedly approached motorists and sought to gain their sympathy by claiming they needed money to cover travel expenses.

The report, filed through the Dubai Police app, helped officers identify the group's modus operandi.

Police teams subsequently monitored the suspects' movements before arresting all 22 members of the gang.

In March 2026, police also dismantled a separate 13-member gang whose alleged ringleader was operating from abroad. The suspects reportedly used fabricated stories, including claims that they were stranded in the UAE, to solicit money.

Dubai Police recorded 1,801 begging cases between 2021 and 2025. These included 458 cases in 2021, 318 in 2022, 499 in 2023, 320 in 2024 and 206 in 2025.

Under the UAE Crimes and Penalties Law, anyone convicted of begging may face up to three months in prison and a Dh5,000 fine.

(Source: Khaleej Times)