YOU MAY SHARE THIS PUBLIC DOCUMENT
The sight of beggars at traffic lights, street corners, and public spaces has become an undeniable part of
South Africa’s urban landscape. While many are genuinely in need, others may have ulterior motives that pose risks
to the public. It is essential to approach this issue with empathy, vigilance, and awareness.
STATISTICS ON BEGGING IN SOUTH AFRICA:
Accurate national statistics on begging are challenging to compile due to their informal and transient nature. However:
The South African Cities Network reported in 2022 that up to 70% of people begging on the streets in major cities are homeless.
Studies indicate that substance abuse is a significant factor, with up to 35% of street beggars being drug users.
According to SAPS data, vehicle-related crimes, including theft and hijacking, have risen by 18% over the past five years, with some incidents involving individuals posing as beggars.
POSSIBLE REASONS BEHIND BEGGING:
POVERTY AND UNEMPLOYMENT:
South Africa's unemployment rate exceeds 30%, leaving many without the means to survive.
HOMELESSNESS:
The lack of affordable housing forces people onto the streets.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE:
Addiction to drugs or alcohol often drives individuals to beg for money to sustain their habits.
MENTAL ILLNESS:
Without proper healthcare, many mentally ill individuals end up on the streets.
ORGANISED CRIME:
In some cases, begging is controlled by syndicates that exploit vulnerable individuals.
IDENTIFYING DRUG USERS:
Drug users may exhibit certain behaviours and physical signs, including:
Dilated or constricted pupils regardless of lighting conditions.
Erratic or aggressive behaviour, often unrelated to their situation.
Frequent sniffing, scratching, or twitching.
Visible marks or sores on their arms or face.
Rapid speech or lethargy, depending on the substance.
CRIME RISKS AT ROBOTS AND INTERSECTIONS:
Fake beggars have been linked to various criminal activities, including:
HIJACKINGS:
Criminals posing as beggars may use the opportunity to approach vehicles and force entry.
SMASH-AND-GRAB THEFT:
Items visible in cars can be snatched by individuals feigning destitution.
DISTRACTION TACTICS:
Groups may work together, where one distracts the driver while another commits theft.
SAFETY MEASURES:
KEEP DOORS LOCKED:
Ensure your vehicle doors are always locked and windows are rolled up, especially at intersections.
AVOID DISPLAYING VALUABLES:
Keep bags, cell phones, and other valuables out of sight.
BE VIGILANT:
Stay aware of your surroundings and note suspicious behaviour.
USE SAFE ROUTES:
Stick to well-lit and busy roads, avoiding areas known for high crime rates.
DO NOT OPEN WINDOWS:
If a beggar approaches, avoid rolling down your window or engaging in conversation.
HOW TO AVOID POTENTIAL CRIME:
TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS:
If something feels off, avoid engagement and move away.
BE POLITE BUT FIRM:
A simple gesture or refusal is often enough.
REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY:
Inform local law enforcement or neighbourhood watch groups of any concerning behaviour.
A CLOSER LOOK AT HIJACKINGS LINKED TO BEGGARS:
Hijackers often exploit the vulnerability of drivers who lower their guard when approached by beggars. According to the SAPS:
PEAK TIMES:
Most incidents occur during traffic congestion, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
COMMON LOCATIONS:
Busy intersections and traffic lights in urban areas are hotspots.
TACTICS USED:
Hijackers may feign injury or desperation to lure drivers into a false sense of security.
While not all beggars are criminals, the risks associated with engaging at intersections are real. We urge the public to remain compassionate but cautious. Instead of giving money directly to beggars, consider donating to credible organisations that assist the homeless and combat substance abuse.
If you encounter suspicious activities or fall victim to such crimes, contact Specialised Security Services immediately.
Our team is dedicated to protecting the public and ensuring a safer South Africa.
Stay vigilant. Stay safe.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel.
This channel is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
How to Join the WhatsApp Channel:
1. Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp on your device.
2. Click on the link below to join the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel:
3. Follow the prompts to join the channel.
4. Make sure you click on "Follow", then click on the "bell"-icon (🔔)
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
Follow us on Facebook to view our projects -
EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
STANDARD RULES APPLY: Upon appointment, we require a formal mandate with detailed instructions. Please take note that should you not make use of our services – you may not under any circumstance use my name or the name of my organisation as a means to achieve whatever end.
POPI ACT 4 of 2013 South Africa: Mike Bolhuis' "Specialised Security Services" falls under Section 6 of the act. Read more here: https://mikebh.link/fntdpv
SSS TASK TEAM:
Copyright © 2015- PRESENT | Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services | All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:
Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services
PO Box 15075 Lynn East
Pretoria, Gauteng 0039
South Africa
Add us to your address book
THIS PUBLIC DOCUMENT WAS INTENDED TO BE SHARED. PLEASE DO SO.
I believe ther is still a definite law in South Africa that says no-one may beg on our streets or anywhere in the country. This law has not been instituted by our lawmakers in the latest years for no other reason that the jails will be full of hungry people who have nowhere to go. So, what now? Hillbrow police in the past got them together and transported them to places of safety. Do these farms etc still exist? Surely the government has a Welfare department that can take them off the streets and help them get up and go again. Wake up South Africa. WHEN YOU HELP SOMEONE, GOD HELPS YOU.