Bekkersdal Police have warned teenagers opening false cases of rape and kidnapping.
“We have noted with great concern teenagers between the ages of 14 and 16 opening cases and wasting the police’s time and resources,” said Sergeant Linkie Lefakane, Bekkersdal Police spokesperson.
She said after going on drinking sprees and spending nights out on weekends, they make up stories of being raped and being kidnapped.
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“They are scared of explaining themselves to their parents about where they have been, so they make up stories. They then contact their family members using unknown numbers to claim that they have been left somewhere,” Lefakane said.
Lefakane added that after an intensive investigation and efforts by members, including specialised units and other agencies, the ‘victims’ would change their story, wasting police’s time and resources.
Legitimate, serious cases are now being delayed because of these false stories.
“Giving a false statement under oath is an offence and punishable by law. We remind parents that a criminal case will be instituted against anyone who gives false statements to the police,” Lefakane said.
Lieutenant Colonel Andile Moshani, the acting Bekkersdal Police station commander, condemned this conduct and said it was irresponsible and malicious.
