Young beggars on Van Buuren Road cause nuisance to motorists
Clr Jill Humphreys said they are aware of the problem and that a Bedfordview CPF member was recently attacked with a knife.
An influx of street children has resulted in mayhem at traffic intersections, causing concerns among motorists.
Motorists fear for their safety as these child beggars continue to cause disturbances on Van Buuren Road.
According to motorists, these children are rude to drivers when they do not get their way.
They try to intimidate residents if they refuse to give them money and spit at and bang on their cars.
Bedfordview Ward Clr Jill Humphreys said they are aware of the problem and that a Bedfordview CPF member was attacked with a knife recently.
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“Yes, they have, indeed, attacked a member of our CPF with a knife.
“Make no mistake, they are armed and dangerous,” stated Humphreys.
“They have, on multiple occasions, been removed, offered shelter, removed again. Shelters do not suit them because there are rules. Many of them are glue sniffers and addicts,” she added.
She emphasised that shelters do not tolerate these habits.
She added that the children cannot be forced to enter rehabilitation, and they will not do it willingly.
“They will keep coming back to our streets because motorists reward them.
“The only way we will curb or stop them occupying our street corners is for the public to stop giving them money. Kind-hearted people often give them food, which they are known to throw away.”
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She said they only want money for their next drug fix.
Addressing the problem, she said there must be a functioning economy that will give hope to young people.
Meanwhile, the Bedfordview acting station commander, Colonel Sinothi Ndaba, said they are working with the courts, social services and a newly formed group to assist and remove these children.
They have started to document some of them to identify where they are originally came from.
Ndaba said they have made arrangements with the Department of Social Services to find a suitable place to place them.
“If we can trace the parents, they will be charged with child negligence. That’s the initiative we are busy with.”
