How to report a missing person to SAPS in South Africa

To report a missing person to the South African Police Service (SAPS), you can follow these steps:

  1. Gather information: Collect all relevant details about the missing person, including their full name, age, gender, physical description (height, weight, hair color, etc.), last known location, and any distinguishing features or clothing they were wearing.
  2. Contact your local police station: Find the contact information for the nearest police station to the location where the person went missing. You can search online or use the telephone directory to obtain the relevant contact details.
  3. Make the report: Call or visit the police station to report the missing person. Provide the gathered information to the police officer in charge. It’s essential to be as accurate and detailed as possible while explaining the circumstances surrounding the disappearance.
  4. Obtain a case number: The police officer should assign a unique case number to your report. Make sure to take note of this number, as it will be crucial for any future inquiries or updates regarding the case.
  5. Request an investigator or detective: Inquire about the investigator or detective assigned to the case. This person will be responsible for further investigation and coordination. Obtain their contact details and keep them readily available.
  6. Provide additional information: If you come across any new information or developments related to the missing person, promptly provide it to the assigned investigator. This could include sightings, conversations, or any other relevant details that might assist in locating the missing individual.
  7. Raise awareness: Take proactive measures to raise awareness about the missing person. Share their details and photographs on social media, community forums, and with local organizations dedicated to missing persons. Encourage others to do the same, as increased visibility can potentially aid in locating the individual.

Remember, the SAPS plays a vital role in handling missing person cases. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with them, provide any updates or additional information promptly, and follow their guidance throughout the process.