12 beggars arrested in Moratuwa for obstructing vehicular movement

Twelve beggars have been arrested for obstructing vehicular movement by begging on roads during heavy traffic in the Moratuwa area today, police said.

Police said two women and ten men were among the arrested and that some of them were faking disabilities.

Police said that even during heavy traffic, the beggars were seen knocking on vehicle shutters asking for money causing heavy traffic.

The beggars are expected to be directed to the Rideegama Rehabilitation Centre after obtaining a court order.

The beggars were arrested from Katubedda, Rawathawatte, Koralawella and Moratuwa but the police said they were not residents of the area.

Police said some of the arrested had bandages on their hands and feet but no wounds were found.

They also said some people were forced to begging because they have been evicted from their homes. (Rekha Tharangani Fonseka)