The Overstrand K9 Unit made its presence felt throughout the December holiday period. Between 23 December 2022 and 15 January 2023, this unit arrested 46 suspects in the Overberg.
A number of illicit items were also confiscated, including 1 814 units of abalone at an estimated value of R976 804, 318 units of abandoned abalone at an estimated value of R426 752, six West Coast Rock Lobster at an estimated value of R3 000, two vessels at an estimated value of R53 000, six vehicles at an estimated value of R505 000 and diving equipment with an estimated value of R8 500.
This unit also conducted a number of patrols in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve after numerous reports of robberies were received. A report by the Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety’s office states that “not a single robbery occurred since the patrols commenced”.
Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety Reagen Allen said: “The key words in any law enforcement effort are visibility and proactiveness. The K9 units committed to being visible throughout the holiday period and have been consistent in this manner. This is part of the reason why they are achieving these successes.”
The Overstrand Law Enforcement K9 Unit’s main objective is to assist the police with the detection and searching for contraband, particularly illegal drugs, firearms and ammunition. The unit also provides assistance to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environmental Affairs to curb poaching.
“As the Western Cape Government we will ensure these units continue to receive the necessary support as they are making a difference to the crime fighting efforts in the areas where they are operating,” Allen concluded.
