UFS Protection Services is responsible for investigating all incidents of crime, whether they involve private or university property. Dedicated investigating officers are appointed to investigate incidents on all three campuses and are on standby 24/7 to deal with serious incidents. Services are available to students and staff. This function has a fully entrenched relationship with the South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation unit.
When an incident is reported, it is handled internally by Protection Services; cases must also be reported to the SAPS. Due to changes in legislation, the UFS can no longer register cases on behalf of plaintiffs, and as such, staff members and students will have to visit the SAPS, or the SAPS will be called to respond to incidents.
Investigations are conducted in a professional, ethical, unbiased, and impartial manner, adhering to the principle of ‘innocent until proven guilty’. Staff and students are expected to cooperate with the investigation process, including being available for meetings with investigating officers and providing requested information promptly.
All complaints are fully investigated. Cases handled by SAPS investigators are also followed up by Protection Services.
- Download the Crime and Incident Investigation Procedure brochure