Family on 'visit' caught for begging, vehicle seized

Muscat: Following a report, the Department of Criminal Investigation led by the police in the Dhairah governorate seized a vehicle used by an Arab family for begging.  As per the details, the accused stopped the vehicles driven by women and sought  financial assistance in a matter that created a sense of fear and also harassment.It was revealed that the family was brought to Oman on a visit visa and the legal proceedings have been initiated against them. A meeting that discussed this issue recently said some people and the groups involved in begging take advantage of the liberal visa rules for tourist, short-term visits, residence and employment. As per law, the penalties include imprisonment for a period not less than one month and not more than one year and a fine of not less than RO 50 and not more than RO 100 for begging in mosques, streets, public or private premises and shops.The court may confiscate the money. If a convicted person continues to beg, he shall be imprisoned for a period of not less than six months and not more than two years. If a foreigner is involved in begging, he will be deported.Law stipulates that he shall be imprisoned for a period not less than three months and not exceeding three years and a fine not less than RO 50 and not more than RO 100, or either of the two penalties.The penalty will be doubled if the defendant is a guardian of a juvenile.