EMERGENCY WARNING: If you are currently in danger, a robbery is in progress, or suspects are still at the scene, immediately call 10111 (the SAPS emergency number
) or contact local armed response. If you are safe and the immediate threat has passed, report to your nearest police station
to open an official criminal case.
Direct Answer: How to Report This Crime or Open a Case
To report a robbery in South Africa and open an official criminal case, you must physically visit a South African Police Service (SAPS) station to lodge a complaint and make a sworn statement (affidavit).
In South African criminal law, robbery involves the theft of property using violence or the threat of violence. Because it is a serious violent crime, you cannot complete the entire case-opening process online or over the phone. A police official must take your statement in person, verify your identity, and register an official docket on the SAPS Crime Administration System (CAS).
When determining whether to Call 10111 or Go to Police Station
, base your decision on immediate safety:
- Call 10111 immediately if the crime is happening right now, injured persons require urgent medical assistance, or armed suspects are nearby.
- Visit a police station as soon as possible if the crime has already occurred, suspects have fled, and you are in a secure location.
When to Call 10111 vs Visit a Police Station
Choosing the appropriate reporting path ensures rapid emergency dispatch and effective case management.
| Situation | Action Required | Primary Contact Channel |
| Robbery in progress or immediate physical threat | Urgent armed response and police dispatch | Call 10111 (SAPS emergency number) |
| Crime occurred, scene is secure, suspects fled | Open a formal criminal case docket | Visit your nearest police station |
| Anonymous tip-off regarding a planned or past robbery | Pass on information confidentially | Call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or visit SAPS Crime Stop |
| Medical emergency following violent assault | Request medical and police emergency services | Call 10111 or 112 from a mobile phone |
Common Location & Reporting Questions
- Can I Open a Case at Any Police Station? Yes. While it is recommended to report the robbery at the police station serving the jurisdiction where the crime occurred, any SAPS station in South Africa is legally obligated to assist you, take your affidavit, and issue a case number. If necessary, they will transfer the docket to the relevant station for detective investigation.
- Can I Report a Crime Online South Africa? No. SAPS does not currently permit citizens to open an official criminal case or receive a CAS number for robbery through an online website or app. Online contact forms and Crime Stop channels are reserved for intelligence tip-offs, not for lodging formal dockets required for criminal prosecution or insurance claims.
For emergency reference, always keep primary emergency police numbers
saved on your phone or accessible in your home.
What Information and Documents to Prepare
Having your information organized before arriving at the station helps the officer write an accurate affidavit and speeds up the docket registration process.
Requirements
To formally lodge a criminal case, you must present valid identification, provide an accurate account of events under oath, and sign a written affidavit.
Documents or details to prepare
- Official Identification: Original RSA Green Barcoded ID book, Smart ID card, valid Driver’s License, or Passport.
- Date, Time, and Location Details: Exact address, nearest intersection, or physical landmark where the robbery occurred, along with the approximate time.
- Itemized List of Stolen Property:
- Cell phones and tablets: Brand, model, color, and IMEI numbers (essential for network blocking and police tracking).
- Vehicles or motorcycles: Registration number, make, model, color, VIN, and engine number.
- Bank cards: Card types and issuing banks (ensure you cancel cards immediately with your bank).
- Valuables: Serial numbers, receipts, photos, or distinguishing features for electronics, jewelry, or firearms.
- Suspect & Vehicle Descriptions: Height, physical build, clothing, spoken language/accent, weapons displayed, and vehicle details (make, color, license plate).
- Witness & Evidence Details: Contact information of any witnesses, or details of nearby security camera / CCTV coverage.
What Happens After You Report the Crime
When you enter the police station, report to the Community Service Centre (CSC) desk. The process follows these practical steps:
- Taking Your Statement (Affidavit): A police officer will interview you and document your account of the robbery. You must carefully review this statement and sign it under oath.
- Opening the Docket: The officer compiles your statement, stolen property lists, and suspect information into a physical case docket.
- Registration on CAS: The case details are entered into the SAPS Crime Administration System (CAS) database.
- Issuing a CAS Number: You will be provided with a unique CAS reference number on paper or via automated SMS.
- Assignment to Detective Branch: The docket is assigned to an investigating officer (detective) at the police station responsible for that precinct.
- Crime Scene Inspection: For residential, business, or farm robberies, forensic teams may visit the scene to gather evidence or lift latent fingerprints.
Official source to verify
For official information regarding police reporting guidelines, consult the SAPS Crime Reporting Guide
or review the SAPS Crime Stop Channel
.
CAS Number, Detective Follow-Up and Case Progress
Understanding Your SAPS CAS Number
A CAS Number (Crime Administration System number) is the official reference code assigned to your registered criminal docket. A standard SAPS CAS reference follows this structure:
CAS 123/08/2026 (Sequential case number / Month / Year)
Your CAS number is critical for several reason:
- It proves that the robbery was formally registered with law enforcement.
- Insurance providers require a valid CAS number to process claims for stolen electronics, vehicles, or damaged property.
- It is required every time you contact SAPS to check case status or submit additional evidence.
Following Up with Your Detective
- SMS Notification: SAPS typically sends an automated SMS containing your CAS number along with the name and contact details of your assigned detective within 24 to 48 hours.
- Direct Contact: If you do not receive an SMS, call or visit the station’s Detective Branch with your CAS number to request your investigating officer’s contact details.
- Updating Your Docket: If you discover additional missing items, locate IMEI numbers, or obtain CCTV footage after leaving the station, contact your detective directly to add a supplementary statement to your case file.
Related Police Services and FAQs
Related police services
To navigate broader legal and reporting requirements, review these related guides:
- Read our full general overview on How to Report a Crime in South Africa.
- If your incident involved identity theft, bank account takeover, or online scams, learn how to report fraud to SAPS.
FAQs
How do I deal with report robbery south africa?
Ensure immediate personal safety first. If a robbery is currently taking place or lives are threatened, call 10111 immediately. Once you are safe, visit your nearest SAPS police station to complete a sworn affidavit, submit an itemized description of stolen goods, and receive an official CAS number for investigation and insurance claims.
Is reporting a crime free in South Africa?
Yes. Opening a criminal case docket, lodging an affidavit, and receiving a CAS number at any SAPS police station is entirely free. You should never be asked to pay any fee to report a robbery or obtain a case reference.
When should I call 10111 instead of visiting a police station?
Call 10111 immediately when a crime is actively occurring, suspects are still near the scene, or someone requires emergency physical protection or medical aid. If the incident has concluded, the scene is safe, and there is no immediate danger, visit a police station to file your report.
What is a SAPS CAS number?
A SAPS CAS (Crime Administration System) number is a unique reference generated when a criminal case is registered in the official police database. Formatted as CAS [Number]/[Month]/[Year], it is essential for tracking detective progress, providing updates, and claiming insurance compensation for stolen property.