‘Disabled’ Johannesburg beggar grows legs

A video filmed by a security guard has revealed that a man who seemed a legless beggar has two healthy legs. The man operates on the corner of Glenhove Road and 5th Street in Houghton, Johannesburg and also allegedly works with another man, distracting drivers while his partner smashes their windows and steals handbags and cell phones.

“There are many more examples of people pretending to be handicapped in order to beg for money, even women who borrow other people’s children for the day to beg at intersections. Don’t encourage begging, especially by conmen. Rather give to charities and NGOs who can make a real difference in the lives of those who are really in need,” according to DAward87, who posted the video on Youtube.

However, opinions on Youtube were rather divided. Some condemned the man’s behaviour. Davyd McColl commented, “Stealing is stealing. He does this because he’s too lazy to get a job and earn an honest living. I see plenty of people who work hard for their money, adding to this world instead of just taking from it.”

Others praised the “creativity,” of the beggar pretending to be legless. “Good Trick! I’d Give Him Money,” said TwoStarII. “Gotta give him props for being creative!” agreed coaxel.

“The human aspect of this is people come up with creative ways of making a living if they are destitute. How often do we make rash judgements but this dude is probably trying to put bread on the table. To those who say well he should look for work,with what skills etc? Employment drives them to do beg, at least his not breaking into peoples houses and thieving,” said Ziah Hayat.

“Imagine the leg cramps getting up from that,” sympathised Tsakane Maluleke.

Some, such as Craig Larkins, were worried that ‘fake’ beggars would discourage people from giving money to those who really need it. “There are honest ways to do it. The problem is, people will be more reluctant to help people who actually need it. His greed and dishonesty has impacted countless others!” he said.

A few were concerned about drivers’ safety due to the distraction created in the middle of the road. “From begging to selling fruit to handing out pamphlets: whatever they do at intersections is a distraction to the driver and public hazard!” said drla4.