Port Shepstone K9 Search and Rescue unit: Heroes in action
K9s Djinni and Ferie play an essential role in locating missing persons and recovering bodies from challenging environments.
The vital work done by dedicated police officers and their highly trained dogs was highlighted in two major incidents on Sunday.
Early last Sunday morning, the Port Shepstone K9 Search and Rescue unit with MC4 Rescue was called to the Ibisi area in the Harry Gwala District after reports of a drowning in the Ibisi River. A 17-year-old boy, who had been swimming with friends, lost his footing on a rock and disappeared under the water.
Warrant Officer Francois Pretorius, Warrant Officer Gawie Nel, Warrant Officer Rommel da Rosa and K9 Djinni, along with Sergeant Mark Banjo and K9 Ferie, conducted a river search.
After a positive indication from Ferie, a dive operation was carried out, and the teenager’s body was recovered. An inquest docket was opened.
Later that evening, at about 21:00, the same rescue team – with multiple medical and emergency services – responded to a multiple-vehicle collision on the N2 near Woodgrange in Hibberdene. The crash involved a truck and three vehicles.
Multiple patients were treated on scene and transported to hospital. Tragically, three people – two men and a woman – were declared dead at the scene. Their bodies were extricated using the jaws of life. One of the deceased, the driver of a vehicle, was identified as an off-duty police officer from Durban.
Ugu District Saps communication office confirmed that the deceased have not been officially identified.
All relevant emergency and law enforcement roleplayers attended the scene, and a case of reckless and negligent driving as well as culpable homicide was opened. With summer approaching and more people heading to rivers, beaches and dams, rescue teams are preparing for an increase in water-related incidents. The Port Shepstone K9 Search and Rescue unit, which currently works with two dogs – Djinni and Ferie – plays an essential role in locating missing persons and recovering bodies from challenging environments. Their tireless commitment, often under difficult and emotional circumstances, continues to provide closure for families and vital support to emergency operations across the district.
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