EMPD investigates mothers panhandling with children on the streets of Boksburg
This came after a concerned citizen came across a woman sitting in the blazing heat, on Rondebult Road near the N12 on-ramp, begging for money with her nine-month-old baby.
The EMPD says its team will investigate and react to the complaints of women begging with babies and toddlers on the streets of Boksburg.
The plight of the begging mom and her baby first caught the attention of the concerned citizen, who took to social media to highlight the pair’s plight and asked if there was someone out there who could come to their aid.
Regarding mothers found using babies and toddlers to panhandle, the Advertiser approached the Boksburg Child Welfare and several government departments, including the Gauteng Department of Social Development, Ekurhuleni’s Social Development Department and the EMPD.
So far, only the EMPD has responded, saying, the complaint has been escalated to the relevant regional director for further investigations.
Our Investigation
The Advertiser’s investigation has revealed there are countless other children who suffer the same fate across the city.
Women were spotted in different parts of the city, begging with babies on hot streets and sidewalks for the whole day.
Reporters for the Advertiser have interviewed beggars and discovered that some of them come from outside the metro.
Facebook users had this to say:
Paul Smith: We have called several welfare organisations, all say it’s not their area. Boksburg not answering their phones!
Tony Harper: They are there all the time.
Vanita Gunn: She is there most days looking for food or money with the little one. Sometimes there is a man with her.
Clare Emms: I feel sad for someone who feels that desperate, or maybe is forced to be there? I wonder which organisation can help!?
Delia Anne Skinner: What a sad situation. I hope something can be done to assist. I will try and take her an umbrella and water.
Get a copy of the next Boksburg Advertiser issue (dated November 29) to read more about what these begging women have to say about their plight.
Also Read: The harsh reality of life on the street
