Bangkok —
On June 11th, 2024, Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, the Minister of Social Development and Human Security, announced the Ministry’s collaboration with various sectors in Bangkok to conduct routine inspections targeting illegal beggars.
According to Varawut, relevant agencies perform these inspections five times a month. Thai beggars identified during these inspections are sent to the Center for the Protection of Homeless Persons, where they receive training and job opportunities under the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security’s supervision. In contrast, immigrant beggars are processed for deportation to their home countries.
Varawut disclosed that since 2014, authorities have apprehended nearly 8,000 beggars, with 30% being foreigners. Despite ongoing efforts by the Bangkok government to address this issue, many beggars continue to solicit money illegally.
The persistent problem is attributed to the substantial income beggars can earn, as both foreigners and Thai citizens generously give them money, remarked Varawut.
Varawut explained that despite fines ranging from one thousand to ten thousand baht, beggars often earn more than the penalties imposed.
During the high tourist season, especially in popular tourist areas, beggars can make as much as 100,000 baht. However, it remains unclear whether these beggars operate individually or as part of organized groups.
To effectively address the issue of illegal begging, Varawut emphasized that the public should refrain from giving money to beggars, as public solicitation is illegal.
He remarked that without lucrative income, the incentive to beg would diminish. He urged the public to cooperate with the government by reporting any illegal begging activities to the relevant authorities through the hotline 1300.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
