Motorists shocked by minor beggars
On Thursday, 13 June, some motorists’ journeys became unpleasant after they encountered children begging at the intersection without any form of parental guardianship.
Street begging is quite prevalent at busy intersections throughout Roodepoort, but the latest sighting of minors at the entrances to Clearwater Mall and the Makro complex on Hendrik Potgieter Road left motorists in shock.
On Thursday, 13 June, some motorists’ journeys became unpleasant after they encountered children begging at this spot, without any form of parental guardianship.
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One motorist, who took photos of the boys while they manoeuvered around cars asking for loose coins and food, questioned the parents of these children and the law for failing to protect the rights of children.
When Honeydew Police Station was approached for comment, Warrant Officer Leshaba Ramalatso, the social crime unit officer, said their hands are tied when it comes to such matters. “We can’t do anything because we can’t take the children anywhere. This becomes a Social Development case since they have shelters to take care of displaced children,” he said.
Ward 89 councillor, Amelia Bester, also weighed in, saying, “The Johannesburg Metro Police Department superintendent, Wandile Mrubata, indicated that he and the Social Development Department are willing to assist any displaced persons who are willing to be relocated to the Hillbrow shelter”.
