Jail, fine for begging in Oman

Muscat: Begging at mosques, roads, stores and public areas in Oman can lead to imprisonment for a period of one year and OMR 100 fine, the Public Prosecution said.

In a statement issued online by the Public Prosecution said:”Dear citizens and residents, begging at mosques, roads, stores and public areas is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a period up to one year and a fine of OMR 100.”

“The court may confiscate the money seized from the offender and order to deport him from the country if he is a foreigner,” the statement added

The Public Prosecution said also:”Using a minor or hand him to another person with intent to beg is a crime is punishable by imprisonment for a period up three years and a fine of OMR 100,”

The statement confirmed:”The sentence is doubled if the offender is the minor's guardian, trustee or a person entrusted to his or her care or supervision.”

“Beggary is a criminal and uncivilized act. It poses many risks. Please avoid dealing with beggars in order not to promote a practice that is against the law and puts your country at risk,” the statement added.