Traffic police arrest 76 beggars in 3-day crackdown

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd May, 2026) The City Traffic Police Lahore (CTPL) on Saturday intensified its action against professional beggars,arresting 76 individuals over the past three days on the directives of Chief Traffic Officer Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi.

According to a spokesperson, the arrested individuals included 20 women, 17 men, 15 children and 24 transgender persons.

Of them,70 were shifted to Edhi Foundation shelters, while six children were handed over to the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Punjab.

The CTO said the Anti-Begging Squad was conducting operations across Lahore,clearing major roads and intersections of professional beggars.

He added that traffic wardens deployed at signals were also participating in the drive.

He further said action was being taken against organized begging networks as part of the ongoing crackdown.

“Professional beggars often harass citizens, and strict action will continue against them,” he said.

Shirazi said surveillance from Punjab Safe Cities Authority cameras was also being used to track activity at key locations.

Citizens have been urged to report professional beggars at traffic signals by calling helpline 15.

Officials said the initiative aims to improve traffic flow while ensuring vulnerable individuals are shifted to welfare institutions.