RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi police said on 31st January it arrested as many as 87 beggars in the last 24 hours as part of their efforts to curb professional panhandling in the garrison city.
A spokesperson for the police said professional alm seekers created inconvenience to citizens by obstructing traffic. He claimed that some of them were also involved in crimes including drug peddling and theft.
The crackdown comes hot on the heels of the Punjab chief minister’s orders to clear city roads from encroachment and beggars.
Following the orders, the Rawalpindi city police officer met the deputy commissioner to discuss the issues arising from the menace.
The police spokesman claimed that special squads have been formed to tackle the issue.
While travelling on city roads, one finds beggars, including women and children standing at intersections, knocking on the windows of cars in the presence of the police, seeking alms.
Rawalpindi residents have also reported a rise in the professional begging in the city.
Published in Dawn, February 1st, 2025
