Crackdown on beggars expanded

PESHAWAR: The ongoing operation against professional beggars has been expanded to suburban areas.

During a midnight operation, authorities took 40 professional beggars into custody, including 17 women, seven men, and 16 children. The minors were shifted to the welfare organization Zamung Kor, where arrangements have been made for their free education, training, and accommodation.

The decision to expand the crackdown followed a review meeting chaired by Commissioner Riaz Mahsud, where it was revealed that many beggars, fearing arrest, had moved to suburban areas, causing distress among local residents. The commissioner directed the administration to intensify the operation and ensure its effectiveness across both urban and suburban areas. “This campaign will continue until a professional beggary is eliminated,” he said.

The commissioner affirmed that the drive will proceed without interruption, including on weekends.