In a crackdown on beggary, as many as 400 alms-seekers, including women, children and transgender persons were arrested on Sunday. The crackdown jointly conducted by city police and traffic policed was launched on the directives Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Amin Wains given the increase in number of beggars at markets, shopping malls, major roads and other places ahead of Eidul Fitr. Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Rai Ijaz said that strict action was taken against 400 beggars who were seeking alms on busy roads in the provincial capital. He said that the CTP’s action against beggars would help reduce road accidents. He also appealed to the citizens that they should avoid giving alms to professional beggars. According to the CTO, the crackdown was launched in the areas of Iqbal Town, Shahdara, Raiwind, Kot Lakhpat, The Mall, Gulberg, Sarwar Road and other parts of the city. He directed SPs and circle officers to personally monitor the crackdown and submit daily performance report to the department. The CTO also directed wardens to behave politely with people and educate them about traffic rules and laws. The nabbed beggars were handed over to a public welfare organisation. However, a massive number of beggars are still roaming in the city. Published in Daily Times, June 11th 2018.