The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) yesterday afternoon issued a news release to this paper, warning that the department would henceforth no longer condone the social phenomenon of begging in the streets which, the release indicates, is on the up.

According to the department, the habit of street begging is lamentably and regrettably increasing in the country, so much so that the GID is left with no option but to warn all those involved to desist from the habit or risk arrest, prosecution or deportation.

“In accordance with the Immigration Information Policy, the Director-General of Immigration hereby informs the general public and the lawful custodians of Almoudos that street begging is becoming rampant and the department is warning all and sundry that the act will no longer be accepted.

“All responsible and concerned citizens are strictly warned to desist from street begging or risk arrest and possible deportation in case of aliens,” stated the release.

According to the Immigration Department, street begging causes obstruction to smooth flow of traffic as well as poses risk to the lives of others.

“Therefore, the Department is warning all street beggars, in strongest possible terms, to desist from such behaviour or risk facing the full force of the law. The general public is, henceforth, warned to co-operate. The co-operation of all stakeholders is also highly solicited in this national crusade,” concluded the release.