Minister Fikile Mbalula concerned about missing persons
The Minister of Police, Mr. Fikile Mbalula has noted with grave concern the reports about missing persons. More alarming to the Minister is the prevalence of women and children in these reports.
“I have been receiving complaints from the public from social media and at my office regarding missing young women and children.
This is a matter of grave concern to me and requires immediate action and attention. If people are to judge the South African Police Service (SAPS) it would be based on how it protects women and children the most vulnerable persons in society.
SAPS’ Missing Person Bureau must enhance its efforts in finding missing persons. Most important, the SAPS must prevent an escalation of the problem,” Minister Mbalula said.
The Minister urges the public to keep in mind at all times that there is no waiting period in reporting missing persons.
“There is no waiting period to report missing persons. This we have changed to make our investigations into missing persons quicker to resolve.
When you suspect your loved one is missing, immediately report to your nearest Police Station with their most recent photograph, an investigator will be allocated to your case and an investigation to find the person will immediately kick-start.
While acknowledging the usefulness of social media in spreading the message, I will stress the importance of reporting to your nearest SAPS Police Station,” Minister advised.
The Minister reiterates that there should never be no-go zones in South Africa and that the SAPS will enhance its visibility in areas that are considered such so our people can move freely.
“Free movement is a constitutionally guaranteed right and ours is to protect it,” Minister Mbalula ended.
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