How to report a crime
in South Africa
1.
Reporting at a Police Station (SAPS)
Go to your nearest police station as soon as possible.
Ask to speak to the officer at the Community Service Centre (CSC) desk.
Clearly explain what happened, providing as many details as possible:
Date, time, and location of the crime.
Names or descriptions of people involved.
Any evidence or witnesses.
The officer will open a case and give you a Case Number.
Keep this number safe. You will need it for follow-ups.
Ask for a copy of your statement.
You can request updates on your case using the case number.
2.
Types of Cases You Can Report
Theft, burglary, robbery, assault, fraud, corruption, and any other criminal offence.
Gender-based violence (GBV), domestic violence, and sexual offences.
Missing persons.
Hate crimes or discrimination.
3.
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Domestic Violence
If you are experiencing GBV or domestic abuse, you have specific options:
GBV Command Centre (24/7)
Phone: 0800 428 428
Please Call Me: 1207867#
SMS "Help" to 31531
Skype (for hearing-impaired): Helpme GBV
South African Police Service (SAPS) FCS Units
Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Units (FCS) are specialised police units for GBV and child-related cases.
You can ask for the FCS Unit when reporting at a police station.
Domestic Violence Protection Order
You can apply for a protection order at your nearest Magistrates’ Court.
This order prevents the abuser from contacting or approaching you.
4.
Online and Phone Reporting
SAPS offers various platforms for reporting crime-related information:
SAPS Crime Stop (Anonymous Tip-off Line)
Phone: 08600 10111
You can report crimes anonymously.
Operates 24/7.
SAPS MySAPS App
Downloadable on Android and iOS.
Allows you to:
Find your nearest police station.
Submit tip-offs anonymously.
Access emergency numbers.
South African Cybercrime Reporting
Online scams, cyber fraud, and digital crimes can be reported at your local police station.
Provide electronic evidence such as emails, screenshots, or transaction records.
After Reporting
Always keep your Case Number for future reference.
Ask for the Investigating Officer’s name and contact details.
You have the right to request regular updates on your case.
If unsatisfied with how your case is being handled, you can escalate it to:
The Station Commander.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) at 012 399 0000.
Quick Reference Numbers
SAPS Emergency (any crime, immediate danger): 10111
SAPS Crime Stop (anonymous tip-offs): 08600 10111
GBV Command Centre (24/7): 0800 428 428
SMS GBV Help: 31531
Please Call Me (GBV): 1207867#
IPID (police misconduct): 012 399 0000