When someone you love goes missing, every second counts. Families are often left unsure of what to do, or what they should expect from the police. This guide explains the steps you can take immediately, and what the South African Police Service (SAPS) is required to do.
In a missing person’s case, a cellphone can greatly assist in locating the missing person. Ensure that family members’ phones always have their locations turned on and install tracking apps to assist in the event of a disappearance.
What You Should Do Immediately
1. Report the disappearance to the police right away
- There is no waiting period to report a missing person in South Africa. You can file a missing person’s report immediately. Insist on a CAS number.
- Go to the nearest police station and provide as much detail as possible: full name, age, physical description, recent photo, what the person was last wearing, places they frequent, cellphone number, medical conditions, etc.
2. Preserve key evidence
- Keep the missing person’s room and belongings untouched, in case the police need to search for clues.
- Write down timelines: when and where they were last seen, who they were with, unusual phone calls, or suspicious behaviour you noticed.
3. Actively spread the word
- Contact family, friends, schools, workplaces, and community networks.
- Share on social media with clear details and a recent photo.
- Reach out to local community policing forums, neighbourhood watch groups, and hospitals.
4. Stay in close contact with investigators
- Get the name and contact details of the officer handling the case.
- Ask for a case number (CAS number) and keep a record of all communication with police.
What the Police Should Do
1. Open a missing persons case immediately
- SAPS must record your statement, open a case docket, and provide you with a CAS number.
2. Collect evidence promptly
- Trace the missing person’s cellphone.
- Obtain CCTV footage from the last known locations.
- Interview friends, family, neighbours, and witnesses.
3. Circulate the person’s details
- SAPS must enter the missing person into the national database and circulate details to all stations, hospitals, and relevant institutions.
4. Keep the family informed
- Families have the right to regular updates.
- The investigating officer should remain in contact, explaining what steps have been taken and what’s next.
Final Note
Swift action from both the family and the police can make the difference between life and death. If you feel the police are not acting urgently, escalate the matter to senior officers or contact a civil rights organisation like Action Society to apply pressure and ensure accountability.
