CAIRO - Statistics issued by the Cairo-based National Center for Social Researches ( NCSR) showed that 500,000 beggars, of different social classes disperse in the Egyptian capital's crowded streets. Criminal reports, says the study, reveal that many beggars have managed to make fortunes out of 'professional' begging.
A NCSR expert said beggars of different age groups keep on inventing new methods to deceive or attract passers-by pity.
Modern studies confirm that methods used in begging are varying and developing as beggars manage to 'rent' babies to use them, or show up with medication prescriptions or use little pretty girls to beg money from passers-by or motorists - especially ones using luxurious cars.
Begging is a felony, according to Egyptian penal code. Begging is also condemned by the Islamic Sharia, which urges Muslim individuals to work to be able to earn a living. (KUNA)
