No waiting period to report a missing person
In South Africa, you can report a missing person immediately at your nearest police station.
Many people still believe you have to wait 24 hours before reporting someone missing.
According to SAPS, there is no waiting period. Community members are urged to contact their nearest police station immediately.
Police advise families to:
· Provide a recent photograph of the missing person, if available
· Give investigators a full description, including the person’s last known whereabouts and what they were wearing
· Provide any other information that could assist the investigation
· Complete and sign an SAPS 55(A) form, which authorises SAPS to circulate the missing person’s photograph and information
· Obtain the investigating officer’s contact details and provide any additional information that becomes available
· Notify the investigating officer immediately if the person is found or returns voluntarily (a SAPS 92 form must then be completed so the report can be removed from the circulation system)
Anyone with information about a missing person or who needs to report someone missing can contact their local police station.
Crime Stop can be reached on 08600 10111, while the SAPS emergency number is 10111. Childline can be reached on 116.
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🚨 THERE IS NO WAITING PERIOD TO REPORT A MISSING PERSON
— GCIS_Mpumalanga (@GCISMpumalanga) September 19, 2026
Do not wait 24 or 48 hours. Report a missing person to the SAPS immediately.
⏱️ An immediate response can help locate the person and save a life.
📞 Report a missing person at your nearest police station.
Act quickly.… pic.twitter.com/ksyX6ArpjW
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