Teens attack homeless man

HOMELESS people living in the central business district have been robbed twice by young teenage boys the past two months.

Chris Macleod, who lives on a corner with his wife and another old man they look after, said these young boys, who are most likely run-aways, attacked him in a group.

They usually come in groups of six to eight and when they have your money and valuables, they scatter.

Macleod said the first time they robbed him was about a month ago. They ambushed him and took R160.

He recognised them the second time as the same bunch who attacked him before. After taking his R80, they scattered, except for one boy, who remained behind.

Macleod went for him and the teenager pulled out a long knife, which looked like a sword. Macleod disarmed the boy and he ran away.

The boy then picked up a brick and threw it at Macleod. Luckily he missed.

Macleod and other bystanders chased him and caught him and some of his accomplices on Long street. He said a couple of police officers witnessed the chase, stopped everyone and made them sit in two rows.

The police were waiting for food at a take-away shop. When their food was ready, they let everyone go.

Mcleod went to the police about six times regarding the matter but did not open a formal case, because it would not matter.

He said the boys will simply run away when a police vehicle approaches. Even if they are caught, they will be back on the street in no time.

Macleod witnessed these boys steal three handbags from women and once even someone’s dog off the back of a bakkie.