Direct Answer: Which Number or Contact Route to Use
Yes, SAPS Crime Stop is completely anonymous.
When you share information about illegal activity through Crime Stop, you are not required to give your name, contact details, home address, or any personal identification. Call center agents are trained to record the details of the crime or suspect without recording caller identity.
Depending on your situation, choose the correct contact route:
| Situation / Need | Correct Contact Route | Phone Number / Channel |
| Active Emergency / Crime in Progress | Contact emergency police dispatch immediately for physical response | 10111 (Landline) or 112 (Mobile) |
| Anonymous Tip-Off / Criminal Information | Report information about past crimes, wanted suspects, or illegal activity anonymously | 08600 10111 or MySAPS App |
| Opening a Case / Docket follow-up | Report a non-urgent crime, obtain a CAS number, or certify documents | Visit your local police station |
| SAPS Service Complaints | Report poor police service, misconduct, or lack of case updates | 0800 333 177 |
Emergency Police Help vs Anonymous Crime Stop Tip-Offs
Understanding the distinction between emergency response and anonymous tip-offs ensures your report is handled by the right division promptly.
Emergency Police Help (10111 & 112)
If a crime is currently happening, a suspect is present, or there is an immediate threat to life or property, do not use Crime Stop.
- Call the 10111 Police Number from a landline or dial the 112 Emergency Number South Africa free from any mobile phone network.
- Emergency operators need your exact location and situation details so response vehicles can be dispatched. Because an active officer response is required, emergency calls are not anonymous.
- For more information on national response channels, see our guide on [Emergency Numbers South Africa].
Anonymous Crime Stop Tip-Offs (08600 10111)
The 08600 10111 Crime Stop Number is dedicated strictly to gathering intelligence on criminal activities, unsolved cases, illegal firearms, drug trade, and wanted fugitives.
- Complete Anonymity: You do not have to provide personal information.
- Whistleblower Protection: You can [report crime anonymously South Africa] without fear of being called as a state witness or having your personal details exposed in court documents.
- Reward System: If your anonymous tip leads to an arrest and conviction, you may be eligible for a financial reward. SAPS handles reward payouts through a secure, coded procedure that maintains caller anonymity.
How to Find the Nearest Police Station Contact Details
While Crime Stop handles national tip-offs, routine police services—such as opening a criminal docket, filing an affidavit, reporting a lost document, or following up on a case (CAS) number—must be handled through local station channels.
To locate your station:
- Identify Your Police Sector: Stations serve specific municipal boundaries and suburbs.
- Search the Station Directory: Use our location finder to locate your [nearest police station] address and landline directory.
- Verify Operating Hours: Community Service Centres (CSCs) at SAPS stations operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for walk-in reporting. Specialized units (e.g., detectives, administration, firearm licensing) operate during standard business hours.
Important Support and Complaint Numbers
Save these key national support numbers for specific reporting requirements:
- SAPS Crime Stop Hotline: Dial the main [Crime Stop number] at
08600 10111for confidential tip-offs. - SAPS National Emergency Line: Dial
10111for immediate police intervention. - National Emergency Mobile Line: Dial
112for mobile dispatch across South Africa. - SAPS Service Complaints Centre: Call
0800 333 177or email[email protected]if you experience non-performance or misconduct from police personnel. - Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC): Call
0800 428 428(toll-free) for immediate support and guidance in domestic abuse or assault cases.
What to Do Before You Call or Visit
Documents or Details to Prepare
To ensure your tip-off or station report is actionable, organize your information before calling:
- For Anonymous Tip-Offs (Crime Stop):
- Exact location or address where illegal activity is taking place.
- Descriptions of suspects (names, aliases, physical traits, clothing).
- Vehicle descriptions (make, model, color, license plate number).
- Specific times or routine patterns when the illegal activity occurs.
- Note: Do not share your own personal contact details if you wish to remain anonymous.
- For Official Case Reporting:
- If you need to know [how to report a crime] formally at a station, bring your original South African ID book or passport, proof of residence, and any physical evidence or documentation related to the crime.
Official Source to Verify
PoliceStation.co.za is an independent directory platform designed to help South African citizens find contact information and safety guidance. We are not affiliated with SAPS. For direct official services, official media releases, or online portals, visit the official South African Police Service website at saps.gov.za.
Related Contact Pages and FAQs
FAQs
What is the right number for is crime stop anonymous?
The official number to report anonymous tips to SAPS Crime Stop is 08600 10111. You can also submit anonymous tip-offs digitally using the official MySAPS mobile application.
When should I call 10111?
Call 10111 when there is an immediate emergency, a crime in progress, an active burglary, or a threat to personal safety that requires immediate police presence at your location.
What is Crime Stop used for?
Crime Stop is used to collect confidential intelligence on ongoing criminal networks, drug dealing, illegal weapons, stolen goods, corruption, and the whereabouts of wanted suspects or missing persons.
Can I report anonymously?
Yes, you can report information anonymously through the Crime Stop toll-free line (08600 10111) or the MySAPS app. You will not be asked for your name, address, or phone number.