13 newly trained K9 handlers have joined the Durban Metro Police, enhancing the unit's capabilities in crime prevention and community safety following an intensive four-month training programme.
Image: SUPPLIED
TWO former SAPS dog handlers discuss their experiences and the importance of their skills in training the Durban Metro Police K9 unit.
On Tuesday, 13 newly trained K9 handlers have joined the Durban Metro Police, enhancing the unit's capabilities in crime prevention and community safety following an intensive four-month training programme.
This brings the total number of K9 Unit personnel to 20, improving the Metro Police’s ability to respond to crime, protect communities and restore public confidence.
The eThekwini Municipality stated that the new handlers demonstrated their skills in detecting drugs, tracking suspects, and combating illegal activities.
Former SAPS K9 unit dog handler and trainer Fazal Rajak
Image: FILE
Fazal Rajak, 61, a former Lieutenant-Colonel in the SAPS and dog handler with 30 years of policing experience, said he jumped at the opportunity to train the dog handlers because it was his way of giving back to the community.
Rajak, an accredited assessor, said he wanted to impart the knowledge and skills he gained from his years spent at the Pretoria SAPS K9 academy or dog school as it was commonly referred to.
Over the decades, South Africans paid for my training where I gained valuable insight and skills alongside the best dog handlers. It was with pleasure that I volunteered to impart my knowledge and skills to the next generation of crime fighters,” he said.
Rajak believes that K9 units play an important part in fighting crime and regarded them as the backbone of crime prevention. Rajak said K9 training sessions were held throughout Durban for handlers to get a feel of different environments. These included the former Durban International Airport, a sports field in Durban and the sugar cane plantations north of Durban.
Former SAPS dog handler Kelvin Shunmugam said he was humbled to see the discipline, dedication and respect that the Durban Metro Police officers had throughout the course.
“We assisted them in our private capacity to impart our skill set and knowledge. It was an amazing experience with Metro police, culminating in the passing out parade. It was a great achievement because K9 training and dog handling can be difficult,” he said.
“We can do better in expanding Metro's K9 faculty. We may not be in the police service anymore, but that does not mean the police are not in us. We will continue to provide assistance to improve the K9 capabilities for people. These patrol dogs are ready to fight crime,” he added.
Councillor Zandile Myeni, the deputy mayor of eThekwini and chairperson of the community Safety and Security Committee, described the unit as a critical force multiplier.
“As crime continues to challenge our communities, including drug trafficking, vehicle hijackings, and violent crime, the deployment of specialised teams such as the K9 Unit is essential in strengthening our response and improving public safety,” said Myeni.
Metro Police Commissioner Sibonelo Mchunu encouraged the newly qualified officers to uphold the values of integrity and accountability, reminding them that their role carries both authority and public trust.
Geraldine Stevens, the Durban Metro Police Head of the College,urged dog handlers to serve with discipline, courage, and professionalism.