NW police urges public to avoid reporting criminality on social media

North West police have pleaded with the public to stop reporting criminal activities on social media platforms because that might compromise the safety of the public.

They say a recent social media post suggests that the Swartruggens police permitted a group of approximately 80 people to load cattle from a farm without the owner’s consent.

Police say this matter was never reported to them.

Provincial spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone says they do not condone such behaviour where people decide to ignore the existing processes and resort to social media.

”This matter was never reported to the police, although the group was spotted outside the police station. We would also like to indicate that the district and provincial management have intervened. As a result, a case has been opened, and investigations into the matter are underway.”

Mokgwabone adds: “Among others, station or unit management or the district or provincial commissioner can be engaged. We also have a service complaint number: 082 856 0995 that can be called to lodge a complaint.”

#sapsNW The #SAPS management in North West is still experiencing situations where some members of the community report cases or lodge complaints on or through social media and other communication platforms.

In a recent incident, a complaint was published on Zeerust Nuus with… pic.twitter.com/2mV19vaOlm

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) February 26, 2025