A Sergeant from the Mthatha Search and Rescue Unit and his K9 partner were showered with gratitude for risking their lives in the line of duty to bring closure to the family of a man who drowned while swimming in a dam.
The drowning happened two days before Christmas.
Police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu says on 4 January, Sergeant Songezile Katikati and his K9, Ogi, braved harsh weather conditions on an inflated rubber duck.
She says Sergeant Katikati had to manually operate his vessel against strong winds.
The two managed to find the badly decomposed body which made the return trip even more challenging as Sergeant Katikati had to keep an eye on the body as well as Ogi.
On the same day, another K9 legend Misty and his passionate and highly skilled handler Warrant Officer Ettienne Gerber assisted in an operation at Bloukrans Bridge where the body of a 57-year-old local man was recovered.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene expresses her gratitude to the dedicated officers and their canines in the Eastern Cape Search and Rescue Units who work diligently to bring solace to those in need.
"The Search and Rescue Units truly embody the spirit of service and sacrifice, making them invaluable assets to our communities.
The success stories of reuniting families and bringing closure to loved ones are a testament to the effectiveness of these specialized teams. Despite the inherent risks, these teams persevere, driven by a sense of duty and a commitment to serving their communities," she said.
