Losing someone to violence is devastating, and the pain is made worse when families feel the police are not doing their job. Understanding the proper process of a murder investigation helps you know what to expect and what SAPS is responsible for.
Arriving on a Crime Scene
1. Call law enforcement
In the traumatic event of finding yourself on a crime scene, the first step is always to call emergency services (medical and law enforcement) immediately.
2. Secure the crime scene
While waiting for their arrival, it is very important to secure said crime scene from everyone except emergency medical personnel or law enforcement. Unfortunately, crime scenes attract a lot of interest. Inquisitive community members and even responding private security personnel, trampling the crime scene, create a tremendous threat to the integrity of the crime scene.
3. Note possible witnesses
Get the names and contact details of any potential witnesses to the crime or crime scene. Hand it over to the police.
Immediate Police Actions at the Crime Scene
- Securing the scene
- Police must secure the area with tape and restrict access to prevent contamination of evidence.
- A crime scene log must record everyone who enters or leaves.
- First responders’ responsibilities
- Attend to any victims who may still be alive.
- Gather the names and contact details of all witnesses
- Notify specialised units if required (forensics, detectives, pathology).
Evidence Collection
- Forensic work
- Crime scene experts must photograph, video, and map the scene.
- Collect fingerprints, DNA, weapon residues, and any physical evidence.
- Seize and store evidence according to chain-of-custody rules.
- Autopsy and pathology
- The body is transported to a state mortuary for autopsy.
- Pathologists determine cause of death, time of death, and recover bullets or other foreign objects.
- Gather the relevant samples for further forensic testing
Investigative Process
- Tracing suspects
- Police should immediately interview witnesses and potential suspects.
- Analyse phone records, CCTV footage, and digital data.
- Conduct line-ups or identification parades where necessary.
- Case building
- Detectives compile all evidence into a docket.
- Work closely with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to ensure charges are strong enough to proceed to court.
- Family communication
- Families must be kept informed of progress in the investigation.
What You Should Expect
- Transparency: The investigating officer should provide updates when requested.
- Thoroughness: All reasonable leads should be followed up.
- Accountability: If police fail to act or delay, families may escalate to senior officers or organisations like Action Society.
Final Note
A professional, thorough investigation is the family’s right and the state’s duty. Every failure in the process not only denies justice for the victim, but puts more lives at risk. Action Society stands with families to hold authorities accountable and ensure justice is served.
