There is no waiting period to report a missing person, and members of the public are urged to contact the South African Police Service (SAPS) as soon as someone goes missing.

Report a missing person immediately

SAPS is reminding the public that an immediate response can be crucial when a person cannot be located.

Provide as much information as possible

When reporting a missing person, the public is advised to provide police with as much information as possible to assist with the investigation.

This should include the latest photograph of the missing person, as well as any other information that could help police locate them.

SAPS also advises families and those involved in the search to keep the investigating officer updated about any developments or information that may come to light.

Do not lose valuable time

The message is particularly important because valuable time can be lost if people delay reporting a person missing because they believe they have to wait a certain number of hours.

There is no waiting period. A missing person can be reported immediately.

Where to report a missing person

Anyone who has information about a missing person or needs to report a case can contact their local police station.

SAPS Crime Stop can be contacted on 08600 10111, while the SAPS emergency number is 10111. Childline can be reached on 116.

SAPS also encourages members of the public to use the official SAPS mobile application, which is available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.