K9 Tracker Unit urges: Don’t wait to report missing persons
You don’t have to wait 24 hours. That urgent message, plus tales of international rescues, had Springs seniors gripped at a recent talk.
The monthly meeting of the Springs Probus Group turned into an eye-opening and inspiring session when members of the Benoni K9 Tracker Unit addressed senior citizens at the Springs Senior Citizens’ Club on July 18.
Warrant Officer Martin Bann debunked a dangerous myth, “You do not have to wait 24 hours to report a missing person. That is completely false. The sooner a person is reported missing, the better our chances of locating them safely,” he told the attendees.
Bann encouraged anyone who notices something unusual in a person’s routine to act immediately.
“If your gut says something isn’t right, don’t wait. That instinct could save a life.”
Warrant officers Coenie van Rooyen and Carlo van den Berg joined Bann. They brought along their canine partners, much to the delight of the audience. The warmly received dogs patiently endured dozens of pats and strokes from fascinated seniors.
The K9 Unit, also qualified for diving and international deployment, shared rescue operation stories, including the recovery of an 80-year-old woman who survived for eight days buried under rubble after an earthquake in Turkey.
However, Bann also noted the challenges the team often faced.
“In cases of suspected drowning, we sometimes meet with resistance due to cultural beliefs. It can take time to convince people that our work is necessary, even urgent.”
He highlighted the emotional toll of the work, “This job demands passion, dedication and, above all, a strong support system. Our families, friends and the community’s backing keep us going.”
The event reminded everyone present of the vital role these units play, not just in finding the missing, but in bringing hope and closure to families in distress.
For more information about Springs Probus and its activities, contact Jonathan Read on 011 818 4029.
