A joint operation by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Social Policy, Demography and Youth began on October 1 to address organized begging on the streets of Skopje.
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Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski said authorities were examining the possibility that a criminal group could be behind the phenomenon. If the suspicions are confirmed, those responsible will face criminal charges.
During an interview on Kanal 5 television’s “At Odds with Ivan” podcast, Toshkovski said institutions were taking action against individuals begging at intersections. Particular suspicion has been raised by cases in which elderly people appear in the same areas in shifts, which could indicate such an organized operation.
The minister stressed that the measures provided for by law would be applied against those who endanger traffic safety. If it is proven that they are part of criminal groups, criminal charges will also be filed against them.
The priority of the operation is children who may be being exploited. Minors found in the field are first taken for medical examinations at the Children’s Clinic in Kozle, while social work centers decide on their accommodation.
Part of the “25 May” facility in the municipality of Butel has been made available to accommodate them, and two children have so far been placed there. Meanwhile, the responsible teams are carrying out daily inspections at intersections across the capital.
