The South African Police Service (SAPS) has highlighted the vital role of its K9 unit—the unsung heroes— in strengthening efforts under Operation Vala Umgodi.
This comes after significant progress since the launch of the operation in December 2023, as authorities intensify efforts to crack down on illegal mining activities nationwide.
SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk stated that the K9 unit's exceptional sense of smell and acute hearing play a vital role in operations, aiding in the detection of explosives and narcotics.
“Today, the SAPS is shining a spotlight on the skills and capabilities of K9 dogs and the vital role they play in supporting Vala Umgodi operations.
With their extraordinary sense of smell and acute hearing, SAPS K9 dogs assist during VALA UMGODI operations to locate explosives and narcotics, often in high-risk environments where human officers face potential harm.”
Van Wyk emphasised that SAPS K9 handlers undergo intensive training to develop the expertise required to care for and collaborate with their canine partners. Wearing the dog handler's badge with pride on their right side, she noted, ‘these officers embody dedication and discipline in their service.’
She added that the SAPS K9 members form part of the Mission Area Joint Operational Centre roving team, deployed as force multipliers to support Tactical Joint Operational Centres in the provinces affected by illegal mining.
Van Wyk further stated that, with the assistance of the K9 unit, more suspects have been arrested for various offences, with the majority being illegal foreign nationals.
“To date, more than 18 000 suspects have been arrested for various offences; the majority of these suspects are illegal foreign nationals. In addition, 458 illegal firearms and more than 12 000 rounds of ammunition have been seized. Also amongst the recoveries are drugs, explosives, trucks, vehicles and uncut diamonds worth more than R32 million,” she said.
The Star
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