It is not a good idea to give food and money to beggars
Police say vagrants are also responsible for some of the crime in the area
OFFERING beggars money and food gives them an incentive to stay on the streets, warn the police.
This is according to a Kempton Park Police report presented at last Wednesday’s first of three public meetings organised by ward councillor Jaco Terblanche.
This gathering was specifically for Glen Marais residents and dealt with issues concerning the suburb. One of the issues raised was the crime in the area, as well as vagrants begging at traffic lights.
According to the police, crime in the area is linked to homeless people. Apart from other crime perpetrators, the vagrants are also responsible for some of the crime in the area.
“And constantly handing out food and money to them doesn’t chase them away but instead gives them even more reason to be on the streets,” Terblanche said.
Crimes such as smash and grabs and housebreaking top the list.
Terblanche said he was happy with the outcome of the meeting which was well attended by residents.
