Quick Answer
The MySAPS Crime Statistics feature allows users to access official South African Police Service (SAPS) crime data directly from their smartphones or feature phones. Through the app, citizens can view recorded crime metrics, track changes in offence rates over time, search for precinct-level statistics across local police stations, and analyze violent and property-related crime trends.
Overview of MySAPS Crime Statistics
The MySAPS mobile application, launched by the South African Police Service in partnership with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), provides public access to official national and precinct-level crime data.
Rather than relying on third-party estimates, the application pulls directly from official SAPS statistics recorded across financial reporting years. This feature empowers residents, researchers, and community safety groups to stay informed about security trends, safety metrics, and crime level changes in their specific neighborhoods.
Key Features & Information Available
When accessing the Crime Statistics section within the MySAPS app, users can view and analyze various data points:
- Precinct-Level Data: Search for any official SAPS police station precinct across South Africa to view localized crime figures.
- Multi-Year Comparisons: Track changes in recorded crime numbers over consecutive financial reporting periods (1 April to 31 March).
- Broad Crime Categories: Filter data across key categories, including contact crimes (murder, assault, robbery), property-related crimes (burglary, theft of motor vehicle), commercial crimes, and sexual offences.
- Per Capita Crime Rates: View contextualized statistics reflecting incident rates per 100,000 residents, calculated using Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) mid-year population estimates.
- Integrated Safety Tools: Easily pivot between reviewing stats, finding local station contact details, viewing wanted or missing persons, and submitting anonymous tip-offs.
How to Access Crime Statistics on the MySAPS App
Viewing official crime data for your area takes only a few steps:
- Download & Open the App: Download MySAPS from the Apple App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Feature phone users can dial
*134*10111#for USSD access. - Navigate to Statistics: From the main dashboard, select the Crime Statistics menu option.
- Select Your Police Station: Use the station finder or search bar to enter the name of your suburb or local police precinct.
- Choose Crime Category & Year: Select the specific reporting year or crime category you wish to inspect.
- Review Results: Analyze multi-year trend graphs, category totals, and per capita incident breakdowns.
Additional Features of the MySAPS App
While checking crime statistics, users can also utilize a full suite of community policing tools within the app:
- Anonymous Tip-Offs: Report criminal activity directly to the Crime Stop Centre without revealing your identity. Tip-offs generate a unique reference number for follow-ups.
- Station & Facilities Finder: Locate nearby police stations, obtain station commander details, and access phone numbers or physical directions.
- People of Interest: Browse updated listings for missing persons, wanted suspects, and unidentified individuals.
- Vulnerability & FCS Services: Access specialized support resources for Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS).
- Service Complaints: Lodge official complaints regarding poor police service or misconduct directly for investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the MySAPS app?
MySAPS is a free official mobile application provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS). It gives citizens easy mobile access to police station locations, anonymous crime tip-off submissions, official crime statistics, and community safety alerts.
2. Are the crime statistics in the app official SAPS data?
Yes. All crime data displayed within the MySAPS app is sourced directly from official SAPS records. Statistics are aligned with the official SAPS financial reporting cycle, which runs from 1 April to 31 March of the following year.
3. How often are crime statistics updated in the app?
Crime statistics are updated in alignment with official SAPS data releases, which occur quarterly and annually following official oversight and verification processes.
4. Can I search for crime statistics by a specific police station?
Yes. The app features a station lookup tool that allows you to search for stats by specific police precinct, city, or suburb across all nine provinces of South Africa.
5. Is the MySAPS app free to download and use?
Yes. The MySAPS app is completely free to download on both Android and iOS devices. Basic USSD services via *134*10111# are also accessible on feature phones.
6. Can I submit a crime tip-off anonymously while using the app?
Yes. You can submit tip-offs regarding criminal activity completely anonymously. The app generates an encrypted reference code that allows you to submit updates or follow up without exposing your personal information.
7. What should I do if I notice high crime stats in my precinct?
If crime figures are high in your precinct, you can engage with your local Community Police Forum (CPF), ensure home security precautions are up to date, and report suspicious activities or tip-offs directly through the app to assist law enforcement.