EMPD K9 Unit faces shortages of trained dogs
According to Terblanche the financial implication to train a dog is estimated at R30, 000 for a 3-month course at an accredited training facility for any of the following, narcotic dog, patrol dog and explosive dog.
The EMPD K9 unit has only five trained dogs for its 19 members.
This was revealed by Kempton Park ward councillor Jaco Terblanche following questions posed in council.
He said the severely under-resourced unit does not have adequate budget and funding to procure trained dogs.
“Currently, the recommended retirement age for the dogs is 10 years, dependent on the breed and condition of the dog.”
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Terblanche said the EMPD K9 Unit has two narcotic dogs, aged nine and they are set to retire next year. The dogs on patrol at the moment are eight years old.
According to Terblanche, the financial implication to train a dog is estimated at R30 000 for a three-month course at an accredited training facility for a narcotic, patrol or explosive detection K9.
“The K9 unit is a vital part of the narcotic unit in the City of Ekurhuleni and it is a matter of urgency that the unit is fully operational to fight the war against drugs which continues to plague the city.
“We will continue to pressure the department to ensure that the K9 unit is fully capacitated to deliver on its objectives and help make Ekurhuleni safer,” said Terblanche.
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EMPD spokesperson Kelebogile Thepa acknowledged receipt of the Kempton Express’ enquiry regarding the matter.
She said the enquiry was forwarded to specialised services management for comment.
At the time of going to print, no comment was received.
