The sacred embrace of Ramadan, a time of profound devotion and compassionate giving, casts its luminous veil over the bustling streets of Dubai. Yet, amidst the echoes of evening prayers and the aroma of iftar delicacies, a darker narrative unfolds – one of exploitation and deceit.
In the heart of this metropolis, where generosity flows like the gentle desert breeze, lies a subtle menace. Khaleej Times delved into the shadows, surveying the encounters of over 2,500 residents with beggars who prey on the benevolence of the faithful. Astonishingly, 42% admitted to succumbing to the beggar’s plea out of pity, while 12% confessed to yielding under the weight of obligation rather than genuine compassion. A disquieting 33%, however, held steadfast, recognizing the beggars’ ruse for what it truly was – a facade woven from deception.
Mohammed Matta, a weary witness to this charade, recounted a tale from a past Ramadan. His benevolent gesture toward a mother and child outside a mosque in Al Ras turned sour when he stumbled upon them later in the evening, not in need but in leisure at a nearby café in Al Qusais. The disillusionment weighed heavy on his heart, echoing the sentiments of many others who had fallen victim to similar schemes.
As the moon ascends and the faithful gather for Taraweeh prayers, the streets bear witness to a different ritual – one of deceit and subterfuge. Ateeq Ahmed, his faith shaken, discovered the truth behind the beggar’s facade one fateful night. What appeared to be a disabled man confined to a wheelchair outside Yakub mosque in Rigga revealed himself to be an actor in a macabre play of deception, casting aside his pretense with impunity.
In the wake of such subterfuge, Dubai Police have taken a decisive stand. With the launch of an anti-begging campaign, they aim to stem the tide of deceit that threatens to mar the sanctity of Ramadan. This campaign, a beacon of hope in the darkness, serves as a warning to those who would exploit the generosity of the faithful for personal gain.
Yet, amidst the shadows, glimmers of justice emerge. The arrest of an Asian woman, her hands stained with ill-gotten gains, serves as a testament to the unwavering resolve of Dubai Police. With over Dh30,000 amassed through beguilement, her reckoning with the law stands as a testament to the resilience of justice in the face of deceit.
As the call to prayer echoes across the city, let it serve as a reminder – a reminder of the true essence of Ramadan, untainted by deception and deceit. In the radiant glow of compassion, let us stand united against those who would seek to exploit the generosity of the faithful.
