The MySAPS Wanted Persons feature allows South African citizens to view active profiles of wanted criminal suspects and submit secure, anonymous tip-offs directly from their mobile devices. Integrated into the official South African Police Service (SAPS) smartphone app, this tool empowers communities to assist law enforcement in locating fugitives and solving open cases safely and privately.
Overview of the MySAPS Wanted Persons Feature
The South African Police Service developed the MySAPS mobile application to bridge the communication gap between communities and law enforcement. Located within the People of Interest module, the Wanted Persons section provides a public, up-to-date registry of individuals actively sought by SAPS for various offenses, ranging from serious violent crimes to financial fraud and property theft.
By making these profiles publicly accessible on mobile platforms, SAPS expands its investigative reach across all nine provinces, enabling citizens to act as the eyes and ears of law enforcement without putting themselves in danger.
How to Access and Browse Wanted Suspects
Navigating the wanted persons directory on the MySAPS app is designed to be straightforward:
- Download and Install the App: The MySAPS app is free to download from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery.
- Access the Directory: Open the application and tap on the People of Interest tab from the main dashboard.
- Select “Wanted Suspects”: Choose the wanted persons category to browse active profiles.
- Filter and Search: Users can filter listings by province, police station, crime category, or suspect name to locate relevant case notices in their local area.
Key Information Displayed on Wanted Profiles
Each suspect profile listed on the MySAPS platform includes standardized investigative details to ensure accurate identification:
- Visual Identifiers: High-resolution photographs, facial composite sketches, or surveillance stills when available.
- Biographical Data: Full legal names, known aliases, estimated age, height, build, and distinctive features (such as tattoos, scars, or facial hair).
- Alleged Offenses: The specific crime or charge for which the warrant of arrest has been issued.
- Case and Station Details: The primary investigating police station and the official Case Administration System (CAS) or Crime Administration System reference number.
- Investigating Officer Contact: Direct contact numbers for the assigned investigating detective or the relevant specialized unit.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Submit a Tip-Off
If you recognize an individual listed in the directory or have actionable intelligence regarding their whereabouts, you can submit a report directly through the app:
1. Initiate the Report
Navigate to the suspect’s profile and tap the Submit Tip-Off button, or select the general Tip-Off icon from the home screen.
2. Choose Your Privacy Level
You will be prompted to select either Anonymous or Communicate:
- Anonymous: Strips all identifying details from your device, ensuring complete confidentiality.
- Communicate: Allows Crime Stop analysts to send follow-up questions via encrypted in-app messaging or SMS without revealing your personal identity to field officers.
3. Provide Specific Details
Input accurate information regarding the suspect’s location, such as:
- Current address, workplace, or frequented hangout spots.
- Known vehicles (make, model, color, registration number).
- Routine habits, associates, or immediate travel plans.
4. Attach Media Evidence
If you have captured photos, videos, or audio recordings safely and legally, upload them directly through the app’s media attachment prompt.
5. Record Your Reference Number
Once submitted, the system generates a unique reference code (e.g., REF00XXX/YYYY). Store this reference number securely to provide updates or check the status of your lead at a later stage.
Privacy, Security, and Anonymity
Public safety relies heavily on community cooperation, and SAPS guarantees strict data protections to protect whistleblowers and informants:
- End-to-End Centralization: All tip-offs are routed directly to the centralized National Crime Stop Call Centre, not to local police station personnel. This eliminates the risk of local compromised officials identifying the tipster.
- Data Masking: If you opt into two-way communication, Crime Stop agents only see a masked contact identifier (e.g.,
******2994). - No Mandatory Account Registration: You do not need to create a profile with your real name, ID number, or home address to browse profiles or submit tips.
Alternative Channels for Reporting Wanted Persons
For individuals without a smartphone or internet connection, SAPS provides alternative communication channels:
| Channel | Contact / Method | Best Used For |
| Crime Stop Hotline | 08600 10111 | Speaking directly to an anonymous call center operator. |
| USSD Code | *134*10111# | Submitting quick text tips from basic feature phones (no data required). |
| Emergency Line | 10111 | Immediate threats, active crimes, or in-progress sightings. |
| Local SAPS Station | In-person report | Formal affidavit submission or detailed physical evidence handovers. |
Critical Safety Guidelines When Sighting a Suspect
Encountering an individual listed on the wanted persons registry requires caution:
- Do Not Confront or Detain: Wanted suspects may be armed and dangerous. Never attempt a citizen’s arrest or engage the suspect directly.
- Maintain Distance: Observe from a safe, inconspicuous vantage point. Note their clothing, physical direction of travel, and any accompanying individuals.
- Report Promptly: Submit a tip-off immediately via the MySAPS app or call the 10111 emergency line if the suspect is currently in sight and poses an immediate risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my identity protected when I submit a tip-off on the MySAPS app?
Yes. When submitting a tip-off, you can select the Anonymous option, which prevents any profile data, phone numbers, or IP information from being transmitted to SAPS. Even if you choose the Communicate option to receive updates, all information is processed confidentially through the central Crime Stop Call Centre, and your contact details remain masked.
Do I need to create a user account to view wanted persons?
No. The MySAPS app allows users to skip the “My Profile” registration step completely. You can freely browse the People of Interest section, view suspect profiles, and submit tip-offs without providing your name, ID number, or personal details.
What is the difference between the MySAPS App and the USSD string code?
The MySAPS smartphone application provides visual suspect profiles, station maps, GPS integration, and photo/video upload capabilities. The USSD string (*134*10111#) is a text-based service that works on any mobile phone without requiring mobile data or internet access, allowing users to send quick, basic tip-offs to Crime Stop.
Can I update or add more details to a tip-off I already submitted?
Yes. You can navigate to the “Submit Additional Information” section in the app, enter your assigned reference number (e.g., REF00XXX/YYYY), and attach new details, descriptions, or media files to the existing case file.
What happens after I submit a tip-off about a wanted person?
Your report is received by analysts at the National Crime Stop Call Centre. The team evaluates the information, verifies its credibility, and cross-references it with the master case file. Valid leads are immediately forwarded to the primary investigating officer or specialized provincial task team handling the warrant of arrest.
Are monetary rewards offered for tip-offs submitted via MySAPS?
In specific high-profile cases where SAPS has officially advertised a public reward, informants who provide intelligence that leads directly to the arrest and successful conviction of a wanted person may qualify for a reward. If you wish to claim a reward, you must follow the formal Crime Stop reward collection procedures using your unique reference number.