Begging is a widespread problem in Jordan, and it is quite difficult for most of us to filter out those who really need our help from those we are warned not to give money to by the government.

On Monday, the Committee for the Fight Against Begging, an authority affiliated with the Ministry of Social Development, arrested a beggar of non-Jordanian origin, who was carrying JD 11,350 on him at the time.

The arrest took place in the Zarqa Governorate.

Fawwaz Al Ratroot, spokesman for the Ministry, said that the beggar will now be dealt with by the justice system, while the money seized will go to the Ministry of Social Development under Article 389 of the Penal Code.

Ratroot pointed out that this incident is an indicator that many beggars are merely concerned with “getting rich fast,” adding that a lot of them “are not actually poor.”

The spokesman further urged citizens not to give money to beggars, as it is the only way to eradicate street begging.