A growing number of Community Policing Forums (CPFs) across Durban are urging residents to stop giving money, food and other forms of assistance directly to vagrants, arguing that public generosity is contributing to an influx of homeless people and an increase in crime in several suburbs.

The campaign, which has gained momentum in areas including Asherville, Mayville, Sydenham, Overport and Morningside, has sparked debate between those prioritising public safety and others concerned about the welfare of society’s most vulnerable.

Asherville CPF chairperson, Rishigen ‘Kody’ Chetty, said the suburb has experienced a noticeable increase in vagrancy in recent months, with homeless individuals now occupying many of its streets.

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“While residents mean well, giving money and food has become an attractant. More vagrants are drawn to areas where assistance is readily available, and this creates concerns about safety, crime and the long-term sustainability of our neighbourhood,” said Chetty.

He added that residents fear an increase in theft, vandalism and other crimes if the situation remains unchecked, while also expressing concern about the potential impact on property values.

The Mayville CPF has echoed similar sentiments, warning residents against giving handouts at intersections and to individuals going door-to-door.

The forum claims there has been an increase in yard thefts and alleges that some suspects identified on security footage are among those frequenting the area.

The issue recently came into sharp focus in Sydenham, where approximately 45 homeless people were removed from a municipal building on Randles Road during an operation involving residents and community activists.

CPF leaders argue that homelessness and street begging should be addressed through structured interventions by government departments, shelters and registered charities rather than through direct handouts.

“The municipality and Metro Police need to take responsibility for managing this growing challenge. Small communities like Asherville cannot absorb an unlimited influx of people without consequences,” said Chetty.

However, previous discussions on the issue have highlighted the complexity of homelessness.

In 2024, homeless resident, Siboniso Hadebe acknowledged that some people living on the streets engage in criminal activities but insisted that most are simply struggling to survive.

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“Most of us are in need. I am grateful to everyone who gives what they can,” he said at the time.

Advocates for the homeless have long argued that the solution lies not in turning away those in need, but in expanding access to shelters, rehabilitation programmes, employment opportunities and social support services.

As the ‘Don’t Give’ campaign gains traction, it has reignited a broader debate over how communities can balance compassion with concerns about crime, public safety and urban management.