‘Residents must report all crimes – no matter how small’
“Not doing so could lead to suspects who are arrested being released without being charged.”
One of the reasons a large number of crimes go unreported is because they are committed by neighbours or families, according to the TMPD.
“People are reluctant to come forward with information because they don’t want their family members arrested,” said TMPD spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba.
“Residents should, however, report crimes at their local police station or the metro police department.”
He said crime can be reported by telephone or email.
“Residents can walk to any authority and report crime. The police will always guarantee their safety and confidentiality.”
Security company Fidelity ADT also urged residents to report crimes in their area to police.
“Not doing so could lead to suspects who are arrested being released without being charged,” said Fidelity ADT spokesperson Charnel Hattingh.
“Selective reporting of crime is also problematic as it contributes to the dissemination of misinformation around crime.”
Hattingh said so many crimes go unreported because of the nature of the crime or a lack of confidence in the system.
“Crime needs to be reported and acted upon whether it seems big, small or insignificant.”
Hattingh highlighted the importance of reporting crime:
– It helps with establishing crime trends and provides authorities with invaluable information on how to best allocate resources.
– If a car registration vehicle is reported, the SAPS can immediately start tracking the vehicle and carry out stop and search interceptions.
– It helps in understanding both motive and modus of the crime and how crime prevention strategies are being deployed.
– It ensures suspects can be sent to jail once they have been finally apprehended. Without a complainant and case number, there is no case.
– It helps the community to better understand and respond to safety issues.
– It can lead to more arrests as their crime could be a critical link to another similar crime and could result in an arrest.
“Residents can also help reduce crime in their areas by supporting their local CPFs, neighbourhood watches or other security groups,” said Boschkop CPF vice-chairperson Jean Jonker.
“Always be observant when in public and always report suspicious behaviour to your local CPF.
“A run-down area invites criminal elements and shows criminals that the area is not being looked after. This shows criminals that security will also be a low priority in such an area.
Jonker said that the Boschkop CPF and Lakes Security Forum will be hosting a self-defense course aimed at empowering women and children to protect themselves soon.
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