Five of Bradford’s most prolific beggars were arrested on Monday during a ‘day of action’ to tackle the issue.
As well as making arrests, police and partner agencies were able to signpost a number of genuinely homeless people towards the help they require.
A police spokesman said: “It was a successful day with numerous genuinely homeless people signposted to services,100+ posters given alerting members of the public and businesses that begging is illegal. 5 of the most prolific Beggars were arrested, charged and excluded from the City Centre.”
In recent months, concerns have been raised about the amount of people begging in Bradford, with particular attention drawn to those seen approaching motorists at busy junctions, prompting road safety fears.
The operation involved neighbourhood policing teams from the City, Bradford West and Bradford East areas working alongside the Bradford Anti-Social Behaviour Team and staff from housing, medical and council backgrounds.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article