Dubai Police have arrested 375 street vendors in the first half of Ramadan for illegally selling food and counterfeit goods in public spaces. The arrests are part of a crackdown to safeguard public safety and raise awareness about the risks of purchasing from unlicensed vendors, reports Khaleej Times.
Several vehicles used for transporting and selling non-compliant goods were also seized in the operation. Authorities highlighted that these vendors often operate in labour accommodation areas, selling products in unsanitary and unsafe conditions.
The arrests are part of Dubai Police’s "Combat Begging" campaign, launched during Ramadan under the slogan "An Aware Society, Free of Begging." The campaign aims to protect the public, raise awareness about illegal activities, and address the dangers associated with begging.
Lieutenant Colonel Talib Al Amiri, Head of the Anti-Street Vending Section at the Department of Suspects and Criminal Phenomena, warned residents not to purchase goods—especially food—from unlicensed vendors or roadside vehicles.
"These items often fail to meet health and safety standards due to improper handling and storage, putting consumers at risk," Dubai Police stated. They urged the public to only buy from licensed establishments to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan