Sharjah: More than 300 illegal residents were arrested during June and July as part of a police campaign launched in the emirate to stem loitering in public places, Sharjah Police said.
The 370 suspects were of various nationalities. The police said those caught had entered the country illegally or absconded from their sponsors.
They took part in selling goods on the street, begging or gambling to earn some money. Colonel Dr Abdul Qader Mohammad Al Ameri, acting director of the Criminal Investigation Department, said the campaign will continue according to a security plan set by Sharjah Police.
Col Al Ameri said a large number of those arrested were found sheltering in abandoned buildings, building sites, workshops and empty labour accommodation. He said this campaign is part of a plan to curb the phenomenon of illegal residents. He stressed inspections would continue to combat any illegal practices.
He urged all community members to cooperate with the security agencies and report any suspicious acts or crimes on 999 or 06-5632222 or the toll-free number Najeed 800 151 or via SMS on 7999 or www.shjpolice.gov.ae/najeed.
