Anthony Modena, the chairman of the Sandton Community Police Forum (CPF), wants community members to take note of the correct procedure to follow after the theft or loss of a cellphone.
“We would like to remind our community of the necessity to advise the [South African Police Services] of the loss or theft of cellphones as required by the Rica Act.”
He explained that the loss, theft or destruction of a cellphone or SIM card should be reported. The chairman quoted from the act and said, “Whenever a cellular phone or SIM card is lost, stolen or destroyed, the owner of that cellphone or SIM card, or any other person who was in possession or had control thereof when it was lost, stolen or destroyed, must ,within a reasonable time after having become aware of the loss, theft or destruction of the cellphone or SIM card, report such loss, theft or destruction in person or through a person authorised thereto by him or her, to a police official at any police station.”
He added that a police official who receives the report must provide the individual who made the report with proof that a report was made. Therefore, residents need to ensure that they leave the police station with the necessary written proof that a report was made. “A record of every report made must be kept at the police station where such a report has been made.”
The aim of this announcement is to create awareness in the interests of public safety. Community members are encouraged to share this information with as many residents as possible.
