Organized Begging Networks Trigger Crackdown
Saudi Arabia has deported nearly 24,000 Pakistani nationals this year after identifying their involvement in organized begging activities. Saudi authorities found that many individuals entered the country on Umrah and tourist visas, only to later engage in begging through well-coordinated networks.
The large-scale deportation has once again brought Pakistan’s international image under scrutiny, particularly in Gulf nations. Saudi officials took the tough step after issuing repeated warnings to Islamabad over visa misuse.
Visa Abuse in Holy Cities Raises Alarm
Saudi authorities expressed serious concern over the rise of begging in Mecca and Medina, Islam’s holiest cities. Intelligence agencies confirmed that several Pakistani visitors used religious visas as a cover for illegal activities. Officials clarified that the issue goes beyond poverty, pointing instead to the presence of an organized “beggar mafia.”
Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) also acknowledged the problem. In an effort to curb the practice, Pakistani authorities stopped nearly 66,000 suspicious passengers at airports before departure.
Strong Warning From Saudi Government
Saudi Arabia has warned Pakistan since last year that failure to control such activities could affect Hajj and Umrah quotas. The Saudi Ministry of Religious Affairs stated that visa violations would no longer be tolerated.
Reports reveal that around 90 percent of foreign beggars in Saudi prisons are Pakistani nationals, highlighting the scale of the issue.
Gulf Nations Tighten Visa Rules
Saudi Arabia is not alone in taking action. The United Arab Emirates has also tightened visa regulations for Pakistani citizens, citing concerns over crime and begging in cities like Dubai. Other countries, including Azerbaijan, Qatar, and Oman, have followed similar measures. Azerbaijan alone reportedly deported around 2,500 Pakistani beggars.
Pakistan Government Expresses Concern
Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi voiced concern over the situation, stating that the beggar mafia has damaged the country’s reputation worldwide. He emphasized that Pakistan’s image abroad continues to suffer due to such activities.
To address the issue, the Pakistani government has deployed special investigation teams to dismantle organized begging networks. However, officials fear that the ongoing deportations and visa restrictions may also impact law-abiding Pakistani workers living abroad.
