BEGGARS MAKE RM300 A DAY

Their favourite spots are traffic lights

THE generosity of city folk towards beggars has allowed some of them to earn as much as RM300 daily, and up to a staggering RM10,000 per month.

Due to the lucrative activity, the beggars go all out to escape regular Welfare Department (JKM) crackdowns by staying one step ahead, always shifting their “place of business” or operating at irregular hours.

Their favourite haunt, however, appears to be traffic lights at busy intersections in the city.

“They carry out their activities at traffic lights because they are able to earn more (when the lights are red), and it is easier for them to escape when they see enforcement vehicles, which cannot catch them in time due to traffic congestion,” said JKM Johor Baru officer Normawarni Mahat, adding that many rescued beggars were found earning up to RM300 a day.

Among the beggars rescued in recent months here are two Rohingya women in their 30s, four children aged between 6 months and 3 years, and a disabled man from Vietnam.

Normawarni said officers had rescued three local men aged between 50 and 60.

“The trio were previously detained and charged under the Destitute Persons Act 1977 in 2016.

“At that time, they were released with a warning.

“However, after being caught numerous times, they were sent to a welfare institution last year,” she said.

“Those who wish to report on vagrants can contact the Johor Baru Social Welfare office at 072232 606 or Talian Nur at 15999.

“We hope the public will not give in easily to beggars as this will only embolden them to carry on with their illegal activities,” Normawarni added.