Police warn public of risks in posting crime evidence on social media

THE NORTHERN Cape police are concerned about unverified footage and information being shared on social media platforms.

Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Sergio Kock cautioned the public against posting crime evidence online for several reasons:

• Suspects may change their behaviour:

• Risk of becoming a target:

• Community may take law into their own hands:

• Information may be unverified:

• Security risks:

Lieutenant-Colonel Kock said the SAPS encourages the public to report any crime-related information directly to the authorities rather than posting it on social media.

He emphasised that a strong partnership between the community and the police is essential in the fight against crime, but it must be done safely and responsibly.

"The police need the community, and communities need the police."