The MySAPS Crime Tip-Off feature allows South African citizens to report crime and suspicious activities directly to the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop Call Centre. Users can submit detailed tip-offs—complete with descriptions, locations, and photo or video evidence—either 100% anonymously or by opting in for two-way communication. Available on Android, iOS, and via the USSD string *134*10111#, it empowers communities to collaborate with law enforcement in building safer neighborhoods.
What is the MySAPS Crime Tip-Off Feature?
Developed by the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the MySAPS Mobile Application serves as a direct digital bridge between citizens and law enforcement.
The Crime Tip-Off tool within the app enables community members to report illegal acts, wanted suspects, drug dealings, illegal firearms, or suspicious occurrences without having to visit a police station in person. Sent directly to the central SAPS Crime Stop Call Centre, every tip-off is evaluated, analyzed, and escalated to relevant investigative units for action.
How to Submit a Crime Tip-Off via the MySAPS App
Submitting a tip-off on your smartphone takes just a few minutes. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
1.Download and Launch the App:
Search for My SAPS on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, install the application, and open it on your device. You can skip the profile setup if you prefer to remain completely anonymous.
2.Tap ‘Submit Tip-Off’:
On the main dashboard, tap the Submit Tip-Off icon.
3.Enter Incident Details and Attach Evidence:
Select the appropriate crime category. Provide specific details, such as suspect descriptions, vehicle registration numbers, exact addresses, or timestamps. If available, attach photos or short video clips (under 2 MB and less than 1 minute in duration).
4.Choose Anonymity Preference:
Select Anonymous if you do not want your profile details transmitted, or select Communicate if you are willing to let Crime Stop Call Centre agents contact you for follow-up questions.
5.Submit and Save Your Reference Number:
Tap submit. The system will generate a unique Reference Number (e.g., REF00XXX/2026). Save this reference number to add updates or check progress under My History.
Reporting Without a Smartphone: Using the USSD Code
If you do not have a smartphone or lack active mobile data to download the app, you can still submit a crime tip-off using USSD.
- USSD Code: Dial
*134*10111#from any cell phone in South Africa. - Process: Follow the on-screen prompts to select your location, specify the type of crime, and input brief details.
- Cost: Accessible across major local mobile networks.
Anonymous Reporting vs. Direct Communication
Protecting informants and citizens is a core priority of the MySAPS platform. When submitting a report, you must choose between two modes:
| Feature / Detail | Anonymous Mode | Communication Mode |
| Identity Protection | Complete anonymity; no profile info is attached | Profile details attached, but identity remains strictly confidential |
| Agent Visibility | Crime Stop agents see zero personal details | Agents only see masked contact details (e.g., ******2994 or a***@gmail.com) |
| Follow-Up Enquiries | SAPS cannot reach out to ask clarifying questions | SAPS agents can contact you via SMS, email, or app notification |
| Progress Updates | Tracked manually via reference number in “My History” | Direct updates sent if further information is requested |
How to Track and Update Your Tip-Off
Once submitted, your tip-off is logged under the My History section of the MySAPS app.
- Adding New Details: If you discover additional evidence (such as new suspect whereabouts or updated vehicle details), open My History, select your existing tip-off, and tap Submit Additional Information.
- Cleared App History? If you cleared your local app history, select Submit Additional Information from the menu, enter your full Reference Number, and submit the new details.
- Checking Status via Phone: You can also call the SAPS Crime Stop Call Centre at 08600 10111 and provide your reference number to check on progress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I have to complete the “My Profile” section to submit a tip-off?
No. Completing the “My Profile” section is entirely optional. You can skip profile creation during app setup and still submit crime tip-offs without providing your personal details.
2. Is my identity safe when I submit a tip-off?
Yes. If you select Anonymous, no profile or personal data is transmitted with your report. Even if you select Communicate, your contact information is masked so Crime Stop Call Centre agents only see truncated details (e.g., the last four digits of your phone number), keeping your identity secure.
3. Can I attach photo or video evidence to my tip-off?
Yes. The MySAPS app allows you to upload photos or video clips directly from your gallery or camera. Video files must be smaller than 2 MB in size and under 1 minute in duration.
4. Do I need mobile data to submit a tip-off?
Yes, using the MySAPS mobile application requires an active internet/data connection to upload details and media. However, if you do not have mobile data, you can use the free USSD string *134*10111# on any cell phone.
5. What happens after I submit a tip-off?
Your tip-off is sent directly to the SAPS Crime Stop Call Centre for analysis. Agents evaluate the information and escalate actionable intelligence to the relevant SAPS Investigative Unit, where an official enquiry or case file is opened.
6. Can I use the MySAPS app to report an active emergency happening right now?
No. The MySAPS tip-off feature is designed for sharing intelligence, reporting ongoing illegal activity, or providing clues about past crimes. If a crime is in progress or a life-threatening emergency occurs, call 10111 immediately for immediate police dispatch.