The Northern Cape police are concerned about unverified crime footage and information being shared on social media platforms.
THE NORTHERN Cape police are concerned about unverified footage and information being shared on social media platforms.
Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Sergio Kock cautioned the public against posting crime evidence online for several reasons:
- If suspects become aware that their identity or vehicle has been identified, they may alter their appearance or take steps to make it harder to arrest them.
- Sharing evidence of a crime could put your life in danger if a suspect discovers you hold proof of their actions.
- Posting images of suspects or crime scenes may encourage individuals to take the law into their own hands, which could lead to harm or fatalities.
- Content shared on social media can often be inaccurate or unverified, making it harder to determine what is true.
- Investigations may be compromised if officers’ identities are inadvertently revealed through online activities.
Lieutenant-Colonel Kock said the SAPS encourages the public to report any crime-related information directly to the authorities rather than posting it on social media.
He emphasised that a strong partnership between the community and the police is essential in the fight against crime, but it must be done safely and responsibly.
“The police need the community, and communities need the police.”
