Lyttelton police warn ‘keyboard warriors’ over crime reports
“We as the police understand that people have a right to be safe, but the same applies to critical information.”
The Lyttelton police in Centurion have warned the public – especially “keyboard warriors” – about commenting on social media over ongoing investigations.
Spokesperson Captain Dave Miller said this practice had potential to scupper investigations.
“When critical information is being shared on social media or by third parties that do not conduct these investigations, the investigating process can suffer.”
Miller said although some information may be vital to an investigation, the process of collecting evidence and preparing a registered docket for court may be affected by inaccurate social media entries.
“The dangers include identifying suspects before evidence is processed or they were formally charged,” said Miller.
He said standard police protocol had to be followed and evidence collected had to support the charges against a suspect before the court.
“As the police, we understand that people have a right to be safe, but the same applies to critical information.”
Miller said the Lyttelton police acting station commander Colonel Daniel Phogole’s aim to make the streets safer was in full swing, “but we need the public to co-operate with us”.
“We would like to urge the public to share any information with us. All information is treated confidential.”
ALSO READ:
https://rekordcenturion.co.za/139811/when-social-media-lets-criminals-get-off-scot-free/
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
