The time for children to be out on the streets, malls, parks and other places is fast approaching. As joyous of time this can be for the family it does come with its risks.
Brixton Police Station is putting out a serious reminder to parents and guardians to be vigilant during these times as this is when children go missing most. Spokesperson for the station, Jeanette Backhoff, said, “This time of the year parents, teachers and the community need to be vigilant as children tend to get missing.”
Backhoff added that empowering children as parents and guardians is a key fundamental in keeping children around them safe. Lessons such as don’t talk to strangers and don’t accept lifts or items from them as well as knowing who to call in an emergency are things parents should be teaching their children to help them avoid any issues.
Backhoff warned parents to be fully aware of their children`s whereabouts at all times. In the unfortunate scenario that your child goes missing, the police are reminding the public to that they can open a missing person’s report as soon as they have established that the child is missing.
The following can be expected when reporting a missing child at a police station:
- A recent photograph of the person will be requested (if one is not available you can still report the case).
- A complete description of the missing person’s last whereabouts, clothes they were wearing and any information that can assist the investigating officer.
- You will be expected to complete and sign a SAPS 55(A) form. The form safeguards the police from fake reports and indemnifies them to distribute the photograph and information of the missing person.
- The investigation officer’s contact details will be shared with you. They will remain in contact with you throughout the investigation.
- If the missing person is found or returns home, those who opened the case must inform the investigating officer immediately.
- A SAPS 92 form will then be handed to the family to complete. This form informs the Bureau for missing persons that the missing person report can be removed from the circulation system.
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