Gqeberha K9 unit member Night was injured while apprehending a housebreaking suspect (21) in the early hours of April 21 in Providentia.
Night sustained two lacerations to the throat and neck with puncture wounds when the suspect (21) forced Night’s head toward broken glass during the struggle. One of Night’s paws was also cut during the arrest.
Police spokesperson, Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, said at about 01:20, Warrant Officer (W/O) Damian Theron utilised K9 “Night” to apprehend a suspect at a house in Woodside Grove, Glendore Road, Providentia where a house robbery was in progress.
“On arrival, a private security company had already secured the scene.
“The members were informed that the owners are out of town, but the suspect gained entrance at the back of the house where a window was open. He forced the burglar bars open and removed them. SAPS members gained permission to access the premises. WO Damian Theron gave the necessary warnings for the suspect to hand himself over, but there was no response,” she reported on the incident.
She added, “W/O Theron then utilised his K9 Night to search for the suspect. The premises were dark, and at the time it was also unknown how many suspects were in the house and if they were armed or not.”
She further added: “During the search of the house, the suspect jumped out of a cupboard and ran towards a window. K9 Night apprehended the suspect, but the suspect fought with Night, grabbed his choke chain and jumped for a big window.
“The window broke, the suspect then forced the dog’s head towards the broken glass, resulting in cutting the dog’s throat and neck area.
“W/O Theron noticed blood and knew something was wrong. He then took off his dog immediately, took off his jersey and wrapped it around the dog’s neck, preventing more blood loss, and rushed him to a local veterinary hospital for treatment.”
She stated that the suspect (21) was arrested and taken to hospital for treatment, whereafter he was detained at SAPS Walmer on charges of housebreaking and trespassing.
“He will appear in the Gqeberha magistrate court during the week,” she noted.
Commenting on Night’s physical state following the injury, Janse van Rensburg said: “He is in a stable condition and is being monitored.”
“Gqeberha K9 wants to express their gratitude to Walmer Veterinary Services, Doctor Campher who acted immediately when he was contacted to assist with the treatment of K9 Night,” she concluded.
