POLOKWANE – Provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has raised concern over the circulation of unverified information on social media regarding alleged criminal activity involving a ‘crying doll’ used to lure residents out of their homes.

According to the reports, the doll is said to cry or scream like a baby during the early hours of the morning, prompting residents to go outside, where they are then reportedly mugged.

Hadebe has categorically refuted the claims, stating that no such incidents have been reported to police in Limpopo.

“We want to assure the community that there are currently no cases reported or patterns identified relating to these allegations. These claims are unfounded and create unnecessary panic among residents,” she said.

She urged the public to verify information before sharing it. “The spreading of unconfirmed rumours can lead to panic and may divert attention from real crime-related issues,” Hadebe added.

Hadebe encouraged residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to their nearest police station.