‘Professional begging’: Pakistan govt acknowledges gangs exporting beggars to foreign countries

Pakistan: Another shocking thing has come to light amid the poor economic condition of Pakistan. Khawaja Asif himself has admitted that the country's image is getting tarnished abroad due to organized beggar gangs. The situation is such that many Gulf countries have even stopped giving visas to Pakistani citizens.

Has begging now become a business and not a compulsion?

While sharing a video, the Defense Minister said that begging in Pakistan is no longer a compulsion of poverty, rather it has become an organized business. Gangs systematically recruit people, train them and then send them to Gulf countries in large numbers.

How does this mafia work?

According to revelations, contractors groom women, children and even fake disabled people. Some people deliberately pretend to be disabled in order to get more sympathy and raise more money. After this they are sent to beg in foreign countries.

What was revealed in the video?

The video shows a family from Faisalabad, which is completely dependent on begging. A child said that he and his three brothers earn about 12 thousand Pakistani rupees every day. With this income the family has even built a permanent house. The child also admitted that his brother is not actually disabled, he is just pretending.

Why did Gulf countries increase strictness?

According to the report, Khaleej Times has also mentioned this problem. Troubled by the situation, many Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates have imposed visa ban on Pakistani citizens. He says that the increasing involvement in begging, smuggling and other criminal activities is a matter of concern.

Is there collusion with the government machinery also?

Khwaja Asif admitted that some people from airport staff, local administration and police may also be involved in this entire network. Without them, it is not possible to send people abroad on such a large scale.

How many people were sent back from abroad?

According to data from Pakistan's Overseas Ministry, more than 7,800 Pakistanis were deported from foreign countries between 2019 and 2025 for begging and other matters. Considering the seriousness of the situation, the government has also canceled the passports of many people.

What impact has it had on Pakistan's image?

Experts say that such activities are tarnishing Pakistan's international image. Common people going for employment or work are also facing difficulty in getting visas.

The simple fact is that the entire country is having to pay the price for the work that some gangs are doing. Now it has to be seen how strict action the government takes against this mafia.