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